Sudan has recently been in the news due to a protracted conflict that has escalated into a severe humanitarian crisis, with reports indicating it is now the world's largest. The ongoing war, which began nearly two years ago, has resulted in widespread famine and displacement, prompting international diplomatic efforts to address the suffering. The paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces has declared rival authority in regions under its control, further complicating the situation. Additionally, the violence has led to significant casualties and injuries, particularly in urban areas like Omdurman.
Sudan, officially the Republic of the Sudan, is located in North-East Africa, bordered by Egypt, Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Red Sea. It has a rich history, being home to one of the earliest civilizations in the world, and has experienced significant political turmoil since gaining independence from British-Egyptian rule in 1956. The country has faced multiple civil wars, economic challenges, and political instability, particularly following the ousting of long-time leader Omar al-Bashir in 2019. The current conflict is rooted in power struggles among military factions and has exacerbated existing humanitarian issues, including food insecurity and displacement.
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Pope Francis, recovering from pneumonia, made a brief appearance on Easter Sunday to bless thousands in St. Peter's Square. While he did not lead the mass, his voice sounded stronger, and he emphasized themes of love and forgiveness in his message. His health continues to improve, but he remains under medical advice to limit public engagements.
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Sudan has accused the United Arab Emirates of complicity in genocide against the Masalit ethnic group amid ongoing civil conflict. The allegations coincide with hearings at the International Court of Justice, where Sudan seeks emergency orders against the UAE. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread displacement.
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Tundu Lissu, leader of Tanzania's opposition party CHADEMA, faces treason charges following his arrest at a rally where he called for electoral reforms. His party's disqualification from upcoming elections raises concerns about political repression. Meanwhile, Gabon's General Brice Oligui Nguema won the presidential election amid allegations of electoral irregularities.
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As Sudan's civil war marks its third year, violence has escalated, particularly in Darfur, where the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have intensified attacks on displacement camps, resulting in hundreds of civilian deaths. The humanitarian crisis deepens, with 13 million displaced and widespread famine affecting millions. International responses remain inadequate.
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On April 15, 2025, a London conference aimed to unify international responses to the ongoing Sudan crisis, despite Sudan's absence. The EU and UK pledged significant aid, while Sudan criticized the gathering for excluding its representatives amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian needs.
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Brice Nguema, the military leader who led the 2023 coup in Gabon, has won the presidential election with over 90% of the vote. His victory consolidates his power amid allegations of electoral irregularities and the barring of key opposition figures. The election marks a significant moment in Gabon's political landscape.
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Recent discoveries in Egypt and Italy highlight the fragility of cultural heritage. Archaeologists uncovered a 3,400-year-old town linked to King Tutankhamun's lineage, while Sudan's National Museum suffered extensive looting during the ongoing conflict. These events underscore the importance of preserving history amidst turmoil.
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On the second anniversary of the Sudan conflict, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) announced the formation of a rival government, the 'Government of Peace and Unity.' This comes as the humanitarian crisis worsens, with 13 million displaced and no peace in sight. Analysts warn of potential permanent division in Sudan.
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The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensified their offensive in el-Fasher, North Darfur, resulting in numerous casualties and displacements. This attack follows a series of violent incidents, including assaults on displaced persons' camps, raising concerns about the ongoing civil war's impact on Sudan's stability.
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A federal judge has initiated a contempt investigation against the Trump administration for allegedly violating court orders regarding the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran immigrant. The judge's actions come amid ongoing legal battles over immigration policies and the administration's handling of deportations.
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Significant cuts to US foreign aid are jeopardizing health and nutrition programs worldwide, particularly in Yemen, Ethiopia, and Afghanistan. The World Food Programme warns that millions face severe food insecurity and malnutrition as funding freezes take effect, with dire consequences for vulnerable populations. The situation is exacerbated by the Trump administration's ongoing withdrawal from international aid commitments.
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On May 10, 2025, at least 33 people were killed in Sudan amid ongoing violence between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the army. Recent RSF drone strikes have targeted Port Sudan and displacement camps, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and millions displaced.
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Gwyneth Paltrow has revealed a change in her dietary approach, moving away from strict paleo restrictions to reintroducing foods like pasta, bread, and cheese. This shift was discussed on her 'Goop' podcast, where she reflected on her evolving relationship with food and health.
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On May 6, 2025, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched drone attacks on Port Sudan, targeting civilian infrastructure including the airport and a fuel depot. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese military, which has already resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement.
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On May 11, 2025, attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan resulted in at least nine civilian deaths, including four children, in el-Fasher. The RSF's ongoing conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has led to significant casualties and humanitarian crises, with over 20,000 dead and millions displaced since April 2023.
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On May 6, 2025, Sudan severed diplomatic relations with the UAE, accusing it of supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the ongoing civil war. This decision follows the International Court of Justice's dismissal of Sudan's case against the UAE regarding alleged complicity in genocide. The conflict has resulted in widespread humanitarian crises.
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The Pulitzer Prizes announced on May 5, 2025, recognized notable journalism, including Ann Telnaes for her commentary on media executives and Donald Trump. The awards come amid ongoing challenges for The Washington Post, where Telnaes recently resigned after her cartoon was rejected, highlighting internal strife and management changes.
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The UAE has rejected allegations from Amnesty International claiming it supplied Chinese-made weapons to Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The report cites evidence of the RSF using these weapons in ongoing conflicts, while the UAE insists the claims lack substantiation and are misleading.