Japan's government to evacuate citizens from Sudan

Apr 19 (CNA) - A new ceasefire between rival factions fell apart Wednesday night in Sudan. Japanese government officials say they are getting ready to airlift around 60 nationals from the country as deadly clashes continue.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu said on Thursday, "The Defense Ministry is making preparations to dispatch Air Self-Defense Force aircraft, which could include C130 and C2 transports. The planes will leave as soon as arrangements are made."

Matsuno said the aircraft will head to Djibouti where the SDF has a temporary base. They are expected to arrive by the end of the week.

Meanwhile, in the capital city of Khartoum, fighting has forced millions of people to hide in their homes.

The clashes come amid disagreements between the army and a paramilitary group over how to transition Sudan back to civilian rule.

The factions had originally worked together to seize power in a coup two years ago.

UN officials estimate that hundreds have died since the fighting began on Saturday.

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