Yesterday, Sudan's military ruler Al Burhan announced a new "temporary transitional council" headed by himself. Along with army officers, a number of civilians were also appointed, one of whom was Abu al-Qassem (known as "Bortoum"), who is considered an ardent supporter of ties with Israel.

Bartam, a businessman from North Sudan became famous in 2015, when he was elected to parliament and then claimed to have made his way into local politics through his fortune. Even in the days of the previous ruler, Omar Al Bashir, he began to promote the idea of relations with Israel. Since the agreement between Israel and Sudan was announced last year, he has tried to initiate business delegations from Sudan to Israel and promote various initiatives between the two countries.

The appointment of the new council last night drew harsh reactions on the Sudanese street and tomorrow a major popular protest is planned demanding the overthrow of the military regime.