Jan 10, 2025, 12:00 AM
Jan 7, 2025, 1:01 PM

US declares genocide by Sudanese armed forces and rapid support forces

Tragic
Highlights
  • The U.S. State Department determined that genocide has occurred in Sudan involving RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces.
  • Secretary of State Antony Blinken reported severe humanitarian consequences affecting millions since the conflict began in April 2023.
  • The international community faces urgent calls to address and respond to the atrocities committed in Sudan.
Story

In Sudan, the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has escalated since April 2023, leading to severe humanitarian crises and numerous atrocities. The U.S. State Department, under Secretary of State Antony Blinken, announced on January 7, 2025, that these two factions have committed acts of genocide, with a particular focus on the systematic ethnic cleansing efforts that have led to tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions. This assessment follows earlier declarations of more widespread war crimes and crimes against humanity made in December 2023, highlighting the ongoing brutality that has characterized this conflict. The violence has disproportionately affected civilian populations, with reports indicating targeted attacks on specific ethnic groups. Blinken emphasized that members of the RSF, along with allied militias, have engaged in heinous acts, including the systematic murder of men and boys as well as committing sexual violence against women and girls. These actions are part of a broader pattern of violence sanctioned by both sides, acknowledging a lack of accountability or humane conduct in this armed struggle. As part of the U.S. response, sanctions were imposed on key figures within the RSF, specifically targeting its leader, Mohammad Hamdan Daglo Mousa, commonly referred to as Hemedti. These sanctions aim to hold accountable those responsible for the atrocities and to curb the violence perpetuated against civilians. Alongside Hemedti, seven companies based in the United Arab Emirates with connections to the RSF were also sanctioned, indicating an international effort to dismantle the support networks enabling this conflict. The declaration of genocide is particularly significant as it marks the second instance of genocide being recognized in Sudan since the early 2000s genocide in Darfur. This highlights ongoing issues of violence and instability in Sudan, with over 30 million individuals currently needing humanitarian assistance due to the escalated conflict. The international community, including the U.S. government, continues to navigate a complex and dire situation, aiming to protect civilians and bring attention to the escalating humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in the region.

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