Sudan Envoy Visits Israel to Revive Normalization Talks

In a discreet diplomatic move, Lt.-Gen. Al-Sadiq Ismail, personal envoy to Sudanese military ruler Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, made a secret visit to Israel last week in a bid to finalize long-delayed normalization efforts between Sudan and the Jewish state, according to Sudanese media.

The envoy’s mission was clear: revive the normalization process with Israel and secure Sudan’s inclusion in the Abraham Accords. In return, Sudan is seeking Israeli backing with the new U.S. administration and assistance in its escalating civil conflict with the UAE-backed Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

In meetings reportedly held with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ismail conveyed al-Burhan’s personal pledge to fulfill any conditions Israel sets to complete the agreement swiftly. The visit marks the latest in a series of quiet efforts by Sudan to align more closely with Israel despite complex regional dynamics and internal turmoil.

Sudan’s pivot toward Iran in recent months previously seen as a red flag by Jerusalem was addressed directly. According to the envoy, the decision to deepen ties with Tehran came under duress, as Sudan found itself isolated on the global stage. With the war draining the country’s resources and straining its military, al-Burhan felt compelled to accept Iranian support after Israeli aid failed to materialize.

Privately, Sudanese sources say al-Burhan has expressed frustration over what he perceives as Israeli inaction. Despite years of coordination since Sudan first signaled openness to normalization in 2020, Khartoum has yet to see the military or strategic assistance it hoped would follow.

Yet, the door remains wide open. Al-Burhan, through his envoy, assured Israel that he remains committed to peace and regional cooperation. He views this current moment as a critical juncture for redefining relations and believes that visible Israeli support could sway public sentiment within Sudan in favor of normalization.

These talks come against the backdrop of Sudan’s devastating civil war, which erupted in April 2023. The power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF has plunged the country into chaos, displacing millions and creating a severe humanitarian crisis. Regional powers like the UAE and Iran have since stepped into the void, further complicating Sudan’s alliances and allegiances.

For Israel, the stakes are high. A formal agreement with Sudan would add another strategic Muslim-majority nation to the growing circle of normalized ties under the Abraham Accords framework. It would also serve as a geopolitical counterweight to Iranian influence in Africa.

As negotiations continue, both countries are weighing their options carefully. For Sudan, Israeli support could be a game-changer. For Israel, embracing Sudan now could help reshape the region again.

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