The saying that politics is based on interests rather than emotions is generally true, but there are exceptions, and Sudan is a prime example. The Sudanese people share a deep bond of respect, mutual appreciation, and love with the Saudis. The ties between Saudi Arabia and Sudan are a model of deep historical relations in a strategically significant region, particularly concerning the Red Sea, a key waterway for global security. The outbreak of civil war among Sudan's people was a shock to all who admire the Sudanese for their simplicity, authenticity, and the strategic importance of their country, especially its geographic location that bridges Africa and the Arab world. Since the conflict began, Saudi Arabia has been actively working to mediate between the Sudanese parties, hosting multiple rounds of negotiations in an effort to achieve reconciliation. However, the complexities and details of the conflict have so far prevented a resolution. Despite these challenges, there is still hope for a breakthrough that will bring peace. A look at Sudan's modern history reveals that the country has only experienced brief periods of stability since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1956. Shortly after the colonial forces departed in 1953 and self-rule was implemented, Sudan witnessed its first military coup in 1958, which lasted until 1964. The October 1964 Revolution succeeded in toppling the government of President General Ibrahim Abboud, granting Sudan five years of civilian rule. This period included the historic 1967 Arab League Summit in Khartoum, known for its "Three No's" resolution, which unified the Arab stance on the Palestinian issue. However, this stability was short-lived. On May 25, 1969, Jaafar Nimeiri staged a military coup, and his rule persisted until 1985. Following Nimeiri, civilian governance returned briefly, only to be interrupted again on June 30, 1989, by another coup led by the Muslim Brotherhood under Omar al-Bashir and Hassan al-Turabi. Since then, Sudan has been plagued by the politicization of religion, ethnic strife, and constant conflict, leading to the eventual secession of South Sudan. The era of Muslim Brotherhood rule in Sudan became notorious, as it joined and led disruptive regional activities that threatened neighboring countries. It damaged relations with Saudi Arabia and the Gulf States, aligning with Saddam Hussein after Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990 and developing close ties with Iran. Sudan also faced isolation after harboring terrorists such as Osama bin Laden and being implicated in attacks on American embassies in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998. These actions resulted in severe U.S. and international sanctions that caused immense suffering for ordinary Sudanese citizens. During these challenging years, Saudi Arabia played a significant role in convincing the U.S. administration, particularly under President Donald Trump, to lift sanctions on Sudan. In recent years, following the overthrow of Omar al-Bashir in 2019, Saudi Arabia has consistently worked to bridge the divide between Sudan's military and civilian factions to prevent the devastating conflict that eventually erupted in April 2023. The Kingdom continues to exert relentless efforts to help Sudan achieve reconciliation and restore peace. It is clear that there are both internal groups and external parties that continue to obstruct peace efforts, attempting to turn Sudan's Red Sea coast into a battleground for regional and international powers. This poses a significant threat to the security of the region. However, these challenges will not deter Saudi Arabia and its allies from pursuing a peaceful resolution. The Kingdom remains committed to helping Sudan return to stability, ensuring that Khartoum once again becomes a safe capital and Sudan reclaims its role as the breadbasket of the Arab world.
