The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on May 25, 2025, to address the escalating crisis in Sudan, emphasizing the urgent need for a global response. The meeting began with a discussion on the potential appointment of a special envoy to Sudan, a move supported by Secretary of State officials. The committee highlighted the importance of direct access to the President for the envoy, bypassing bureaucratic hurdles to ensure effective action.
Ken Isaacs, Vice President of Programs and Government Relations at Samaritan's Purse, was introduced as a key witness. With over three decades of experience in humanitarian crises, including significant roles in disaster response, Isaacs underscored the necessity of immediate and coordinated relief efforts in Sudan. He reflected on past experiences, such as the Indian Ocean tsunami response, to illustrate the impact of timely intervention.
Cameron Hudson, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, followed Isaacs. Hudson's extensive background in African affairs and his previous roles within the National Security Council positioned him to provide critical insights into the situation in Sudan. He emphasized the need for a strategic approach to address the ongoing humanitarian and political challenges.
The meeting also featured Kalud Care, founder of Confluence Advisory and host of Sudan's first English-language political debate show. Care's involvement highlighted the importance of engaging younger generations in political discourse regarding Sudan's future.
The committee's discussions reflected a consensus on the urgency of addressing the crisis in Sudan, with calls for immediate action and the establishment of a special envoy to facilitate international cooperation and support. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further explore these avenues and ensure that the plight of the Sudanese people remains a priority for U.S. foreign policy.