BAGHDAD - Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid said Monday that Iraq is ready to help the conflicting Sudanese parties to hold a dialogue for a ceasefire.

"I assure our brothers in Sudan of Iraq's readiness to make efforts and help in securing opportunities for constructive dialogue in a way that contributes to giving priority to peace and strengthening the democratic approach," Rashid said in a statement.

He said that Iraq is closely watching the unfortunate developments in Sudan, which claimed the lives of civilians, damaged institutions, and disrupted opportunities to continue building and progress in the democratic and peaceful path in Sudan, according to the statement.

Rashid expressed hope that the conflicting Sudanese parties will "abandon the use of arms and violence and rely on the principles of democracy to enhance the opportunities for dialogue in a way that preserves life, peace, and justice."

Clashes erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the capital Khartoum and adjoining cities Saturday morning, after days of tension over the RSF's integration into the army.