US refuses Sudan's al-Burhan a UN visa as New York talks press for ceasefire and civilian transition

The US denied Sudan's leader a UN visa as New York diplomacy gathered pace toward a humanitarian ceasefire and transition to civilian rule.

• The United States refused a visa to Sudan's Sovereignty Council head Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, conditioning his attendance on a 90-day ceasefire.
• The US State Department said neither Sudan's army, the Rapid Support Forces, nor their leaders represent a legitimate or constitutional authority.
• Sudan's foreign ministry rejected the US statement, affirmed national sovereignty, and called on Washington to engage positively with the government.
• Civilian coalition Sumoud, led by former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, met Norwegian officials in New York and urged an immediate unconditional humanitarian ceasefire.
• The US State Department said it would 'seek to raise the cost of continued conflict on all belligerents.'
• Sudanese activists and journalists criticized the US over the visa move, citing alleged double standards.
• Activists noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, wanted by the ICC, had received a visa.