The latest mediation, led by the U.S. Senior Advisor Massad Boulos, seeks to revive negotiations aimed at securing a temporary ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach millions of civilians affected by the war.

The talks have stalled after the SAF insisted that any agreement must begin with the RSF withdrawing from cities under its control. 

The RSF rejected the demand, arguing that such conditions amounted to surrender.

The deadlock comes as fighting continues across several parts of Sudan, reducing hopes that the proposed truce could quickly ease the country's worsening humanitarian crisis.

Military sources said the SAF has strengthened its position after consolidating control of the Export Road linking El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State, with Khartoum, despite intensified drone attacks by the RSF.

Analysts say the battlefield developments have shifted the balance in the negotiations.

"The military's recent gains in Kordofan have strengthened its position in the negotiations. They could also help civilians return to their homes and improve humanitarian access," said Mohiedeen Mohamed, an analyst.

Mediators believe a temporary ceasefire could open humanitarian corridors, increase aid deliveries and build confidence for broader peace negotiations. However, continued clashes have made those goals harder to achieve.

"Recent fighting in Kordofan has reshaped the battlefield and prompted both sides to reinforce their positions. That shows neither is ready to make concessions, making a humanitarian truce unlikely to improve conditions on the ground," said Abdolmoniem Abuidrees, another analyst.

Sudan has been at war since April 2023, when fighting erupted between the SAF and the RSF.

The conflict has killed tens of thousands of people, forced millions from their homes and triggered one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.

The United Nations estimates that 33.7 million people across Sudan will require humanitarian assistance this year.