{"id":20125941,"date":"2026-01-11T13:53:25","date_gmt":"2026-01-11T12:53:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dabangasudan.org\/?p=20125941"},"modified":"2026-02-10T11:33:24","modified_gmt":"2026-02-10T10:33:24","slug":"sudan-timeline-october-december-2025-a-collective-failure-to-end-a-brutal-war","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dabangasudan.org\/en\/all-news\/article\/sudan-timeline-october-december-2025-a-collective-failure-to-end-a-brutal-war","title":{"rendered":"Sudan timeline October-December 2025: ‘A collective failure’ to end a brutal war"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Sudan\u2019s battlefield map shifts significantly in the second half of 2025, marking one of the most notable territorial changes since the war began in April 2023. As the conflict enters its third year in 2026, analysts warn that the country has entered a new phase, with serious humanitarian and political implications.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The country continues to face a devastating war marked by widespread violence, reports of atrocities, famine conditions in several regions, and an increasingly restrictive political environment. The conflict has generated what the United Nations (UN) describes as the world\u2019s largest displacement crisis, with millions forced to flee their homes inside Sudan and across borders. Humanitarian access remains severely limited in many areas.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The fighting continues between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by Lieutenant General Abdelfattah El Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti. The SAF and Sovereignty Council, central to Sudan\u2019s political life, is currently governed by a military leadership. The RSF originated from militias active in Darfur and West Kordofan, later gaining influence while allied with the army before breaking away in 2023, triggering the current war.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Observers say the conflict is driven by competition over power and economic resources, alongside political and ideological factors and long-standing ethnic tensions. After nearly three years of fighting and heavy casualties, the war has increasingly taken on characteristics of a protracted and retaliatory conflict.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regional and international actors continue to influence developments on the ground. Egypt and Turkey have expressed political support for the SAF, while Iran previously provided military assistance before suspending it. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been repeatedly accused by international observers and media of supporting the RSF with military equipment, allegations it denies.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The RSF\u2019s takeover of El Fasher, capital of North Darfur, in October, following months of fighting, marks a major setback for the SAF. Subsequent clashes in West Kordofan, including the loss of the Heglig oil field in December, highlight a shift toward competition over strategic resources rather than urban centres.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the war approaches its thousandth day, reports of violations against civilians continue. Punters warn that Sudan risks sliding toward de facto partition, with contested frontlines across central and western regions.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Speaking to Radio Dabanga, Fatima Issa of the Bahri Resistance Committees says that Sudan\u2019s youth and peaceful popular movement remain central to stopping the war, achieving a comprehensive and sustainable peace, and restoring democratic civilian rule. Activist Maysoun Ali explains that the Sudanese people\u2019s outpouring of support to commemorate the December 2018 revolution, a massive, peaceful civil movement that brought about the end of the Al Bashir regime, is proof that their spirit has not died.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Reported incidents triggering displacement in North Kordofan from April 15, 2023, to November 18, 2025 (Graphic: IOM)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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A march in Golo town in Jebel Marra, Central Darfur, in support of the conviction of Ali Kushayb (Photo: RD)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

October<\/strong> sees intensified fighting, renewed accountability efforts, and limited diplomatic movement, as the RSF advances militarily and humanitarian conditions deteriorate further. The RSF escalates drone strikes and ground operations across Khartoum and the Darfur and Kordofan regions, with El Fasher a central objective. Despite initial denials, El Burhan confirms the city\u2019s fall on 27 October, amid widespread reports of killings, displacement, and attacks on hospitals and humanitarian workers. Reports highlight the RSF\u2019s extensive economic interests in gold, livestock, banking, and construction, underscoring the role of resource control in the conflict. The International Criminal Court (ICC) conviction of Ali Muhammad Ali Abdelrahman, known as \u2018Ali Kushayb\u2019, of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Darfur is welcomed by displaced communities and renews calls for accountability. Diplomatic efforts re-emerge when the Quartet countries meet in Washington to push for a temporary ceasefire. Continued fighting and worsening disease outbreaks, however, limit prospects for immediate relief.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Movement of displaced people from El Fasher and surrounding villages from October 26 to November 9 (Graphic: IOM)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

October 1: <\/strong>\u00a0Prime Minister Kamil Idris announces a $100 billion package of investment projects<\/a> proposed to Saudi Arabia, as well as a fresh review of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) with Ethiopia and Egypt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 2:<\/strong> The Sentry<\/em> publishes a new report exposing an RSF \u201cparamilitary-industrial complex\u201d<\/a> in gold mining, livestock, abattoirs, construction, tourism, and banking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 3: <\/strong>The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports 1.7 million malaria cases<\/a> and 117 deaths this year to date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 5:<\/strong> Teachers continue to fight for the essentials they have “long been denied” on World Teachers Day<\/a>, as the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) calls for stronger partnerships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 6: <\/strong>The ICC convicts Ali Kushayb on 27 counts of war crimes<\/a> and crimes against humanity in Darfur from 2003 to 2004, \u201cbeyond reasonable doubt.\u201d A renewed RSF assault<\/a> on El Fasher, North Darfur, kills 13 amid reports of chemical weapons use, as the paramilitary force intensifies its arrest campaign<\/a> of civilians, teachers, and local officials in South Darfur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 7: <\/strong>In an interview with Radio Dabanga<\/a>, <\/strong>Former Minister of Finance Ibrahim El Badawi says that \u201cany military settlement will reproduce the Sudan crisis.\u201d \u200b\u200bSudan has successfully contained cholera <\/a>in some states, but continues to battle major outbreaks of dengue fever and malaria, reports the Federal Emergency Operations Centre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 9: <\/strong>A France 24<\/em> investigation finds that the SAF used chemical weapons<\/a> during two airstrikes on the El Jeili oil refinery, northeast of Khartoum, in September 2024. RSF-allied Sudan People\u2019s Liberation Movement North led by Abdelaziz El Hilu (SPLM-N El Hilu), redeploys its fighters<\/a> from El Fasher to its traditional stronghold in South Kordofan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 10:<\/strong> On World Mental Health Day<\/a>, the psychological distress experienced by those who are affected by humanitarian emergencies in Sudan is highlighted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 11: <\/strong>At least 20 civilians are killed in an SAF air raid<\/a> on a social event in El Koma, North Darfur. Ammar Daldoum<\/a>, secretary-general of SPLM-N El Hilu and Minister of Foreign Affairs in the RSF-backed Sudan Founding Alliance (Tasees) government, says \u201cour arrival in Port Sudan is only a matter of time.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 12:<\/strong> Displacement camps across the Darfur region stage peaceful marches<\/a> in support of the conviction of Ali Kushayb. Emergency room volunteers and revolutionary resistance committees face cyberwar<\/a> as their online activity and communication are constantly monitored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 13:<\/strong> The Federal Ministry of Health reports 611 cholera cases <\/a>in 15 states, with North and South Kordofan, South Darfur, and Central and East Darfur among the worst affected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 14: <\/strong>The RSF resumes drone strikes<\/a> in Northern, Khartoum, and White Nile states, killing two<\/a> Sudan Shield Forces members (allied with the SAF), in retaliation for SAF airstrikes in Darfur. Professor Eric Reeves<\/a> dissects the role of the US in aid, food, and famine in Sudan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 15: <\/strong>Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi and El Burhan meet in Cairo<\/a> to discuss the escalating conflict, dire humanitarian situation, and growing international push for peace. For the second day in a row, RSF drones strike Khartoum<\/a>, killing civilians and soldiers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 16: <\/strong>About 830 individuals are displaced from Bout town<\/a>, Blue Nile state, and El Mazrub village<\/a>, North Kordofan, due to heightened insecurity. Sudan has seen an unusually high number of malaria cases<\/a> this year, a WHO spokesperson tells The Telegraph<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 19:<\/strong> Egypt and the European Union call for a ceasefire<\/a> as anti-corruption leaders convene in Uganda. Heavy artillery and drone strikes hit Kadugli, South Kordofan, and El Obeid, North Kordofan, as health facilities<\/a> are on the brink of collapse. The SAF carries out air and drone strikes<\/a> in El Geneina, capital of West Darfur, and Saraf Umra, North Darfur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 20: <\/strong>An RSF drone strike<\/a> kills dozens of newly enlisted SAF soldiers at a military training facility in North Kordofan capital, El Obeid. SAF drone strikes<\/a> reportedly hit RSF positions in Korma and Kabkabiya in North Darfur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 21:<\/strong> RSF drones reportedly target Khartoum International Airport<\/a> one day before its reopening. El Burhan vows to \u201celiminate the RSF.\u201d A new outbreak of dengue fever<\/a> is reported in Nyala, South Darfur. The Sudanese pound suffers as the UAE de facto flight ban disrupts the vital gold trade<\/a>, according to Sudanese officials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 23: <\/strong>The El Fasher Resistance Committees Coordination report the \u201chorrific\u201d massacre of sick and wounded patients<\/a> of the city\u2019s Saudi Hospital by \u201cJanjaweed militiamen.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 24:<\/strong> The Quartet countries<\/a> meet in Washington D.C. to ramp up pressure on a three-month ceasefire which would allow humanitarian aid to reach Sudanese civlians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 25: <\/strong>Ahmed Kadouda, Technical Advisor at the Impact Policy Group (IPG), warns of the imminent failure<\/a> of supply lines of aid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 26:<\/strong> The RSF claims full control of El Fasher<\/a>, sparking swift denial from the SAF and Popular Resistance Committees in North Darfur. The North Darfur Emergency Rooms Council<\/a> accuses the RSF of committing genocide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 27:<\/strong> El Burhan confirms the fall of El Fasher<\/a> to the RSF, amid reports of mass killings, displacement, and widespread abuses. Five Sudanese Red Crescent humanitarian volunteers are killed<\/a> in the city of Bara, North Kordofan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 29:<\/strong> Conflicts of interest confound the Central Bank of Sudan<\/a> (CBoS), with the owners of gold export companies on the one hand and influential leaders in the country on the other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 30:<\/strong> The UN Security Council holds an emergency session<\/a> to address the rapidly deteriorating situation in El Fasher, amid fierce condemnation of RSF atrocities<\/a> and demands for immediate humanitarian access<\/a>. The ICC trial of Ali Kushayb<\/a> is an indictment of the Al Bashir regime and the SAF, writes Amal Mohammed Al-Hassan of Al-Taghyeer.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

October 31:<\/strong> The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports 29,147 cholera cases<\/a> and 852 deaths between 22 July and 31 October, as the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED) reports 27,000 civilians and 45 humanitarians killed since the war broke out. \u201cThe accountability for what is happening is, ultimately, a collective failure<\/a>,\u201d says Jean-Nicolas Armstrong-Dangelser, M\u00e9decins Sans Fronti\u00e8res (MSF) Senior Operations Advisor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Arrival of displaced people from El Fasher to Tawila in North Darfur on November 5 (Photo: Coordination of Displaced Persons and Refugees)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

November<\/strong> is marked by mounting evidence of atrocities, deepening famine, and intensified diplomatic manoeuvring, as fighting continues across Darfur and Kordofan. UK-based Sudanese activists stage direct action in London, protesting alleged foreign involvement in the war, while journalists inside Sudan face disappearances, arrests, and killings. The ICC confirms it is collecting new evidence from El Fasher, later requesting a life sentence for convicted war crimes suspect Ali Kushayb, as satellite imagery and survivor testimonies point to mass killings, empty markets, and body disposal. Famine is confirmed in El Fasher and Kadugli, as displacement surges and aid access remains constrained. Heavy fighting centres on Babanousa, the SAF\u2019s last stronghold in West Kordofan, while battles rage across North and West Kordofan. Diplomatically, the RSF signals openness to a Quartet-backed ceasefire and later announces a unilateral humanitarian truce, while the SAF rejects the initiative and accuses international actors of seeking to divide Sudan. Allegations of chemical weapons use resurface late in the month, further escalating international concern.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Head of the Sovereignty Council and Commander-in-Chief of the SAF, Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan, visiting El Sariha in El Gezira on November 14 (Photo: Sovereignty Council)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

November 2: <\/strong>A demonstration against alleged UK\u2013UAE involvement <\/a>in the Sudan war blocks 10 Downing Street in London, as Aisha Hamad, a specialist in gender, development, and peacebuilding, says that the essence of the war <\/a>in Sudan \u201cis much deeper than a mere competition for governance.\u201d On International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists<\/a>, the statistics for Sudan are disproportionately grim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 3: <\/strong>The ICC confirms it is gathering evidence<\/a> of the latest atrocities in El Fasher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 4: <\/strong>Global pressure mounts<\/a> as world leaders, diplomats, and UN officials call for an urgent halt to the violence in El Fasher. Famine is confirmed<\/a> in the state capital, as well as in Kadugli.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 5:<\/strong> The Freedom Secretariat of the Sudanese Journalists Syndicate laments that of 20 media professionals <\/a>who were operating in El Fasher before the RSF seized control of the city, they have \u201ccompletely lost [contact] with seven journalists, whose fate remains unknown.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 6: <\/strong>The RSF accepts<\/a> the Quartet ceasefire terms as the SAF digs in. The new SDG 2,000 banknote reflects \u201ca dual and contradictory monetary policy,\u201d says financial analyst Ahmed Ben Omar<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 10:<\/strong> The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) reports that 88,892 people were displaced<\/a> between October 26 and November 9 from El Fasher and surrounding areas. A \u2018Hold Before You Send It\u2019 session explores how social media shapes realities<\/a> in conflict-affected communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 11: <\/strong>During their visit to Port Sudan, Senior UN officials press for humanitarian access, as the government rejects<\/a> the Quartet ceasefire. UN Women warns that rape<\/a> is being \u201cused intentionally and systematically\u201d in Sudan, where hunger and displacement deepen daily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 12:<\/strong> Heavy fighting erupts between the SAF and RSF around the besieged city of Babanousa<\/a>, the SAF\u2019s last remaining stronghold in West Kordofan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 14:<\/strong> El Burhan renews calls for mass mobilisation<\/a> during his speech in El Seriha, El Gezira.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 15: <\/strong>The SAF retakes strategic areas<\/a> in North Kordofan, thereby securing the state capital, El Obeid, which, for many analysts, is seen as the gateway to securing military victory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 16: <\/strong>Intense fighting between the SAF and RSF erupts again in Babanousa, as the Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty urges Washington<\/a> to support a coordinated humanitarian truce. The Quartet initiative to end the war reveals a virtual absence of women\u2019s participation<\/a> in negotiation processes in Sudan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 17:<\/strong> ICC prosecutors request a life sentence<\/a> for convicted Ali Kushayb. Displaced people from El Fasher find safety in Qarni<\/a>, a few kilometres northwest of the capital, after \u201cgoing through hell.\u201d Sudanese human rights activist Dawaa El Hussein<\/a> and UN Under-Secretary-General Tom Fletcher<\/a> highlight the ongoing atrocities in the state capital.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 18:<\/strong> Battles rage in North and West Kordofan, with both sides of the war claiming victory<\/a>. Former Sudanese Prime Minister and head of the Forces of Freedom and Change Alliance, Abdallah Hamdok, calls on the Sudan army<\/a> to welcome a Quartet-brokered ceasefire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 19: <\/strong>Those fleeing El Fasher describe violent attacks<\/a> and scenes of panic and terror<\/a> as they left, following the RSF siege. US President Donald Trump\u2019s vow to personally intervene<\/a> to end the war, following a request from Saudi Arabia\u2019s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is welcomed by El Burhan.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 20: <\/strong>The Strategic Initiative for Women in the Horn of Africa (SIHA) publishes testimonies of the RSF siege<\/a> of Barah, North Kordofan, between October 24 and 25. Over 243 pregnant women<\/a> have arrived at displaced camps in North Darfur and Northern State, some of whom suffered miscarriages during their displacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 21: <\/strong>New Yale Humanitarian Research Lab<\/a> (HRL) satellite evidence shows \u201cempty markets\u201d and \u201congoing body disposal\u201d in El Fasher in the first half of November. The largest aid consignment<\/a> by an international organisation since March arrives in Port Sudan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 22:<\/strong> The Libyan Humanitarian Foundation announces a campaign to provide urgent assistance<\/a> to Sudanese refugees in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 23: <\/strong>El Burhan accuses<\/a> the Quartet and the US\u2019s Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos, of \u201cseeking to divide Sudan.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 24: <\/strong>Hemedti announces the RSF\u2019s agreement <\/a>to a three-month humanitarian truce, saying they will halt fighting to allow aid to reach civilians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 25:<\/strong> The IOM reports that 39,725 people were displaced from North Kordofan<\/a> between October 25 and November 18, as Amnesty International publishes testimonials of survivors<\/a> who escaped El Fasher last month. The MSF withdraws from Zalingei hospital<\/a> in Central Darfur for the second time this year following a shooting incident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 26: <\/strong>As the US revives allegations<\/a> against the Sudanese government of the use of chemical weapons, the National Umma Party (NUP) denounces a court decision<\/a> sentencing Nazir Mamoun Habani to death. <\/strong>The SMF expresses deep concern for the fierce campaign waged by the Sudanese authorities and their judicial bodies against a number of journalists<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 27:<\/strong> The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate (SJS) reports it has documented 32 deaths<\/a> and 556 violations against media workers since war broke out in April 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 28:<\/strong> Lt Gen Yasir El Atta, Sovereignty Council member and SAF Deputy Commander-in-Chief, vows to stage a coup<\/a> against civilian authorities if they win, stoking outcry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 29: <\/strong>Bakri El Jack, spokesperson for the Sumud alliance, warns that El Burhan is steering the country toward fragmentation by insisting on a battlefield outcome<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

November 30:<\/strong> In Newcastle, UK, human-rights activist Mohamed Elnour is assaulted for critiquing the SAF<\/a> while speaking at a demonstration against the war in Sudan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The Sudanese national soccer team, The Falcons of Jedaine, prior to their match against Equatorial Guinea in Casablanca (Photo: SUNA)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

December<\/strong> brings renewed evidence of abuses and worsening humanitarian conditions amid ongoing conflict. The RSF claims control of Babanousa and the Heglig oil field, declaring the latter a turning point, while South Sudanese forces move into Heglig under a tripartite agreement. The Sudanese government reportedly offers Russia its first African naval base, raising regional security concerns. Damning reports surface throughout the month. Amnesty International documents deliberate RSF attacks on civilians in Zamzam camp, and the Yale HRL confirms RSF mass killings in El Fasher. A CNN investigation accuses the SAF of ethnic targeting in El Gezira. Attacks on aid convoys and UN peacekeepers escalate, including a deadly drone strike on a UN camp in Kadugli. The World Food Programme (WFP) warns of drastic ration cuts in 2026 amid worsening famine. As the year closes, Sudan\u2019s arts scene, including rap and film, reflect the country\u2019s turmoil. Analysts warn of deepening economic and security crises, stressing urgent international action.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Natural hazard displacement since 2023 (left) and in 2025 (right) according to the IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix (Graphic: IOM)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n
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Timeline of reported natural hazard events triggering displacement in Sudan from April 2023 to November 2025 (Graphic: IOM)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

December 1:<\/strong> The RSF claims control<\/a> of Babanousa, the last SAF stronghold in West Kordofan, as Dutch MP Sarah Dobbe urges intensified efforts to stop the war in Sudan. The Wall Street Journal <\/em>reveals that the Sudanese government has offered Russia its first naval base<\/a> on the African continent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 2: <\/strong>UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper says that Sudan requires a \u201cglobal push\u201d for peace<\/a>, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says that Trump is \u201cthe only leader in the world capable of resolving the Sudan crisis.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 3: <\/strong>An Amnesty International report<\/a> documents how the RSF deliberately killed civilians, took hostages, pillaged and destroyed buildings in Zamzam camp, North Darfur, between April 11 and 13, as the Sudanese government laments that the country only has 22 psychiatrists<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 4: <\/strong>A WFP convoy<\/a> travelling to Tawila, North Darfur, is attacked in Hamrat El Sheikh, North Kordofan. The <\/strong>Exiled Human Rights Defenders Group reports on the extent of violations<\/a> by SAF and RSF in the Sudan war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 5:<\/strong> An aid truck is destroyed, and 20 civilians are killed, as drones strike a market<\/a> in Adikon near the Sudan\u2013Chad border.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 6: <\/strong>High costs delay the repatriation<\/a> of Sudanese refugees from Uganda. Activists say that Kadugli, capital of South Kordofan, faces mass displacement<\/a> amid the complete collapse of services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 7:<\/strong> \u201cEl Burhan is playing with fire\u201d by reopening the file concerning a Russian military base<\/a>, says military and security expert Maj Gen Hashem Abu Rannat. Between January 2024 and October 2025, 40 per cent of individuals returned to Sudan due to improved security<\/a> at their place of origin, according to an IOM report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 8:<\/strong> The RSF claims Heglig oil field<\/a>, West Kordofan, declaring the move a turning point in their campaign. Meanwhile, China starts its withdrawal from Sudan\u2019s faltering oil sector. An SAF drone strike<\/a> on Kutayla town, South Darfur, kills at least 80 people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 9:<\/strong> The ICC sentences Ali Kushayb to 20 years in prison<\/a> for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in 2003 and 2004. In Khartoum, a civilian dies under torture <\/a>inside SAF detention facilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 10:<\/strong> The Ayin Network<\/em> wins the 2025 Dutch Human Rights Tulip award<\/a>, for its extensive use of video evidence to expose human rights abuses in Sudan. The IOM estimates that 80 per cent fewer people were displaced due to natural hazards<\/a> in 2025 compared to 2024; of those displaced, approximately 12 per cent were already displaced due to conflict.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 11: <\/strong>The South Sudanese army moves into Heglig oil field after a tripartite deal<\/a> to \u201ccompletely neutralise\u201d the area from combat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 12: <\/strong>The WFP warns that drastic ration cuts <\/a>will start in 2026 to \u201cthe absolute minimum for survival.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 13:<\/strong> <\/a>A drone strike hits a UN camp<\/a> in Kadugli, killing Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injuring eight others. In Abu Dhabi, Egyptian and UAE foreign ministers discuss the need for close coordination with the Quartet to end the war in Sudan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 14: <\/strong>A drone strike hits a hospital in Delling, South Kordofan, killing seven civilians<\/a> and injuring 12 others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 15:<\/strong> El Burhan<\/a> meets Saudi crown prince to \u201crestore stability\u201d as regional efforts intensify to halt Sudan\u2019s war, as Sudan tops<\/a> the global humanitarian crisis index for the third year in a row.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 16:<\/strong> The Yale HRL lab confirms RSF mass killings<\/a> and cover-up in El Fasher on October 26. A CNN and Lighthouse Reports investigation indicates that the SAF campaign<\/a> in El Gezira from October 2024 to May this year \u201cconstitutes ethnic targeting.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 18:<\/strong> 234 medical workers<\/a> have been killed since the war in Sudan began, says the Sudan Doctors Network. Meanwhile, new evidence of widespread sexual violence<\/a> in Darfur is revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 21:<\/strong> Aid agencies warn of worsening humanitarian and health<\/a> crises. 107,294 people have been forced to flee<\/a> El Fasher and surrounding villages, according to IOM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 22:<\/strong> Prime Minister Idris presents to the UN Security Council, proposing an end to the conflict <\/a>based on a ceasefire, the disarmament of the RSF, and the pursuit of justice and reconciliation. Darfur victims express divided opinions<\/a> over Ali Kushayb\u2019s 20-year ICC sentence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 23: <\/strong>Tasees dismisses<\/a> Prime Minister Idris\u2019s UN peace initiative. Over 58,000 people<\/a> are reported to be displaced amidst ongoing violence in South Kordofan. Uganda\u2019s Kiriyandongo camp hosts 400 Sudanese refugees with disabilities<\/a>, the majority of whom have been injured in the war.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 24: <\/strong>The RSF and Tasees claim control <\/a>of Abu Gamra and Um Baru in North Darfur, killing over 200 people<\/a>, as a tragic roundup of the war in numbers<\/a> is published to mark the end of another year of conflict. \u201cThere is no point in pursuing any political agreement that does not first bring an end to the war in Sudan,\u201d according to Sudanese Communist Party member Neamat Koko<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 26: <\/strong>Over 7,000 people are displaced<\/a> from the Ambro and Karnoi areas of North Darfur following a week of RSF attacks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 27: <\/strong> The SAF accuses the RSF<\/a> of attacking El Tina army base in Chad, killing two Chadian soldiers. Meanwhile, in New Halfa, Kassala, police disperse a brawl <\/a>following a court verdict. Professor Amani Al-Tawil affirms that Egypt\u2019s red line<\/a> in Sudan is centred on protecting the unity of the state and preventing its fragmentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 28:<\/strong> Sudan beats Equatorial Guinea in the Africa Cup of Nations<\/a>. Radio Dabanga publishes deep dives into Sudanese rap <\/a>and the state of the arts<\/a>, as the Youth Citizens Observers Network (YCON) reports that social media<\/a> is an active political arena for tribal discourse, hate speech, and racism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 29:<\/strong> El Burhan\u2019s visit to Turkey <\/a>sparks concern amid an escalating internal crisis of economic collapse and deteriorating security and military conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 30:<\/strong> Sheldon Yett, representative for UNICEF in Sudan, says displaced children<\/a> \u201care facing extremely difficult conditions,\u201d as the US expresses \u201cdeep concern\u201d over El Burhan\u2019s dismissal<\/a> of calls for a ceasefire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

December 31: <\/strong>\u201cThe city is recovering, but it will never be the same again,\u201d says Khartoum (2025) <\/em>film<\/a> co-director Rawia Alhag. A Radio Dabanga report examines the impact of the restriction of transportation of goods<\/a> to western Sudanese states. Sudan loses 0-2 <\/a>to Burkina Faso in the Africa Cup of Nations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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People fleeing Kadugli on their way to a safe place on December 21 (Photo: social media)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Previous timelines<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline July-September 2025: Daily attacks, disease, and disaster obscure plans for peace<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline April-June 2025: Bleak hope emerges against bloody reality of conflict<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline January-March 2025: Power shifts as army wins major battle grounds in destructive war<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline October-December 2024: Reports of famine and calls for peace overshadowed by war<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline July-September 2024: Thousands starving as war continues without mercy<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline April-June 2024: Sudan war \u2018remains overlooked by international community\u2019<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline January-March 2024: Sudan becomes \u2018the largest humanitarian crisis in the world\u2019<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline October-December 2023: War deepens Sudan\u2019s suffering<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline July-September 2023: Sudanese \u2018in survival mode\u2019<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline April-June 2023: Tensions between Sudanese army and the paramilitary RSF erupt into full-scale armed conflict<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline January-March 2023: Economy \u2018grim\u2019 amid fractious talks on transition to civilian rule and security sector reform<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline October\u2013December 2022: Anti-junta protests swell amid regime crackdown, tribal strife displaces thousands as economy bleeds<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline July- September 2022: Junta continues to repress resistance as Pound founders and hunger grows<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline April\u2013June 2022: Popular resistance to junta escalates, banditry and intercommunal strife in Darfur and across Sudan as 15 million face hunger<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline January\u2013March 2022: Political turmoil, lawlessness as attempts to revive democratic transition collapse<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline October-December 2021: Democratic transition under siege, foreign finance cut as military sizes power<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline July-September 2021: Political discord escalates, poverty grows, as thousands are displaced by floods, violence<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline April-June 2021: Waves of violence continue, international debt relief brings hope for economic upturn<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline January-March 2021: Holdout rebels in from the cold, Sudanese pound devalued, COVID-19 vaccine roll-out begins<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline October-December 2020: Peace accord signed, COVID second wave bites, security fears as UNAMID withdraws<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline July-September 2020: Public anger at slow implementation of revolution, floods devastate communities countrywide<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline April-June 2020: Covid-19 marks all aspects of life, inflation soars<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline January-March 2020: Little relief to the country\u2019s economic, security woes<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline October-December 2019: Interim government put to the test<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline July-September 2019: Turbulent transformation from tyranny<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sudan timeline December 2018-April 2019: How did civil discontent propel Sudan towards the overthrow of Al Bashir?<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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