US reportedly refuses visa for Sudan’s al-Burhan ahead of UN address
Sources say the United States refused Sudanese leader General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan a visa to attend the UN General Assembly in New York, amid reported pressure for a 90-day ceasefire.
The United States has reportedly refused to issue Sudanese de facto leader General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan a visa to travel to New York for the United Nations General Assembly.
Table Of Content
Al-Burhan was scheduled to address the gathering on Wednesday. The reported refusal has raised uncertainty over whether he will travel to New York or speak at the assembly.
Reported ceasefire condition
Sudanese and Western sources said Washington linked the visa to al-Burhan’s acceptance of a 90-day ceasefire. The reported condition comes as efforts continue to end Sudan’s war and relations between Washington and Khartoum deteriorate.
Al-Burhan’s army has been fighting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces since 2023. He has addressed the General Assembly twice since the conflict began.
UN engagement
Sudan’s ambassador to the United Nations urged the world body to intervene over the visa dispute.
A spokesperson for UN chief Antonio Guterres said Guterres was “deeply concerned” that the visa had not been issued and was engaging with Washington on the matter.
One diplomatic source described withholding the entry permit as a “violation of the UN’s agreement with the US.” That characterization was attributed to the source and was not presented as an established finding.
Possible alternative speaker
It was also reported that Sudan’s foreign minister may address the United Nations instead of al-Burhan. However, it remains uncertain whether the foreign minister will take that role.
The visa standoff adds to tensions surrounding Sudan’s conflict and threatens to further strain relations between Washington and Khartoum.
No Comment! Be the first one.