After the Wall Street Journal Article… Al-Burhan Moves the Battlefield to the Heart of Washington

Report – Amir Abdulmajed
The American newspaper Wall Street Journal published an article by Sudan’s Sovereignty Council Chairman, Lieutenant General Abdul Fattah al-Burhan. The piece received extensive coverage in Arab and local media, as well as on television channels, offering analyses and readings. In it, al-Burhan presented his vision in detail, providing evidence on the events in Sudan, explaining to the global audience his perspective and that of his government regarding the causes of the war, its developments, and its current state.
He emphasized that his vision aligns with that of former President Trump and the U.S. Secretary of State, praising their recent statements. Al-Burhan stated that the war erupted because the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) rebelled against the state, adding that, distressingly, the militia does not act alone. He warned that the battlefield will not remain confined to Sudan, asserting that the war threatens the stability of the Red Sea to the east and the Sahel region to the west, posing risks to American interests in the area.
He stressed that achieving peace requires dismantling the RSF and its mercenaries, stating that there is no place for them or their collaborators in Sudan’s future security and political landscape. He extended a hand to the Americans, welcoming partnership once the war ends, and noted that American companies would play a significant role in reconstruction and long-term investment.
Why did al-Burhan address Americans directly this time? And are such statements and articles influential?
Al-Hajj Al-Madah, a Sudanese journalist residing in the U.S., wrote: “Al-Burhan has proven himself a politician beyond the realities of Sudanese politics by publishing this article in one of America’s largest newspapers. The Wall Street Journal is highly influential, and it is extremely difficult for a head of state or an African politician to publish an article in it. The newspaper maintains strict standards, and it is not easy to pay a third party to publish a piece about an ongoing war. This breakthrough suggests, at the very least, that American institutions, particularly the CIA-affiliated circles close to the newspaper, approved its publication. Al-Burhan’s detailed article reaching U.S. decision-making circles is a very smart step and represents a qualitative shift in the mindset of Sudanese policymakers.”
He continued: “Al-Burhan and his government successfully conveyed their message clearly, with detailed explanations, showing a sophisticated understanding of the American mindset. I affirm that his speech, prepared by experts familiar with American concerns, is very likely to influence U.S. policy and its response to the war in Sudan.”
Professor Fadl Al-Mawli Al-Na’eem, a political science expert in strategic studies, said: “Al-Burhan intended not just to address the American reader, but the U.S. administration, governmental institutions, business sectors, and the media. Therefore, he focused on explaining what happened and what is happening now. He emphasized that he seeks a greater role from the current White House administration and a partnership with it.”
He added: “Al-Burhan once again underscores that peace and resolution will not come by leaving the RSF intact; he sees the solution in dismantling it and integrating qualified members into the Sudanese Armed Forces.”
He further explained: “This is a smart step, placing al-Burhan’s views directly before the U.S. administration and public opinion. I don’t see Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Trump himself far from this step, which opens the path to the upcoming settlement.”
He added: “This can be seen as a continuation of al-Burhan’s recent speech to the officers, or its ‘American version.’ By presenting his argument and perspective at a time when U.S. institutions are shaping their understanding of a solution, I believe his message has reached them. What has been released here can be considered broad lines of the Sudanese government’s stance.”
He concluded: “Al-Burhan anticipated any visit by U.S. envoy Ms. Masud Boulos to Sudan, delivering his voice directly. I believe this is part of the behind-the-scenes movement involving Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the U.S., where there is currently significant activity to stop the war and reach a political settlement.”
Wall Street Journal is one of the most prestigious American newspapers. It does not accept just any article; it has strict publishing standards and generally avoids pieces lacking credibility or influence. Its editorial line is largely aligned with U.S. interests and policies. The newspaper is owned by media mogul Rupert Murdoch, and it is widely noted that Wall Street Journal and Washington Post act as extensions of the CIA.