The ongoing conflict in Sudan involves military leaders who have opposing visions for their country’s future, causing Sudanese citizens and foreigners residing there to be caught in the midst of the fighting.
The United States and Saudi Arabia have helped to negotiate a three-day ceasefire in Sudan in order to allow civilians a chance to leave safely. While most of the fighting has paused, explosions continue in the evenings as the military leaders refuse to seek peace.
Taking advantage of the ceasefire, the United Kingdom has utilized its military air power to evacuate citizens holding British passports who are living in Sudan. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has prioritized the evacuation of families, elderly individuals, and those with medical issues by contacting those registered with the British Embassy in Khartoum and sharing evacuation plans.
Americans residing in Sudan are left to find their own means of safety, as the Pentagon has concluded that the risks outweigh the benefits of organizing a military evacuation.
However, the Biden Administration has promised to assist Americans who wish to leave Sudan and avoid the conflict. They have provided information on a 500-mile route to safety and the National Security Council (NSC) has reported that special convoys may be departing the area for Americans to join. Unmanned craft will monitor the progress of the convoys from above.
The NSC has advised Americans to stay put and wait it out if they cannot reach safety through the convoys. Despite the closure of the American Embassy in Sudan and the evacuation of staff using U.S. forces and helicopters, 16,000 Americans remain in Sudan. Republican lawmakers are critical of the wait-and-see approach, fearing a repeat of the chaotic Afghanistan exit in 2021.
