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Sudan's President says the seven-year war in Darfur is over. Jem, a major rebel group, signed a ceasefire with President Omar Al-Bashir in preparation for more permanent peace talks.

Al-Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes in the Darfur region.

We're looking at perspectives from Al Jazeera English, The BBC, and The Sudan Tribune.

After so many failed attempts at peace, Al Jazeera English says there's a chance this deal, brokered by Chad and Q'atar, could work this time.

"This is the first time that a number of these smaller groups actually come together and present a common platform to talk, that is one difference right there. Another difference is the international backing that this seems to have."

"But whether this turns out to be the beginning of a new era will depend on the details of how the Sudanese government and Jem will work through key and deeply divisive issues. At stake, the fate of millions of refugees who fled from their homes during seven years of fighting."

The UN, African Union, United States, and many other nations have applauded the step forward. But the BBC's James Copnall wonders if peace is possible for Darfur, noting some key groups are not involved.

"The Abuja accord of 2006 failed because only the Sudan Liberation Army's Minni Minawi, of the major faction leaders, signed up to it. Several of the small groups may jump on the bandwagon. But the SLA-Abdul Wahid faction, which possibly has the most support, in the camps for the displaced at least, has refused to enter into talks with the government."

The leader of that faction that refuses to participate, Abdel Wahid Al-Nur exiled in France called the deal 'ceremonial.' He tells the Sudan Tribune he wants to see real progress rather than just words.

"Al-Nur said his movement wants a peace that would start with security on the ground in order to protect civilians. He added that 'Khartoum government is very good in signing agreements but always very bad in its implementation'."

Do you think there can be peace in Darfur? Is a cease-fire with one group a good way to convince others to stop fighting?

Writer: Erika Roberts

Producer: Newsy Staff