US Embassy guard killed in Sudan by RSF paramilitary group

A local guard at the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum, Tariq Hassan Ahmed, was killed while in the custody of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group. The U.S. Bureau of African Affairs expressed deep sadness over his death and has called for the RSF to provide full details regarding the circumstances of his detention and subsequent killing. Ahmed was regarded as a dedicated and respected member of the embassy community, highlighting the personal loss felt by his colleagues. The incident occurred shortly after the RSF had agreed to a code of conduct during U.S.-mediated talks in Geneva, which included commitments to comply with international humanitarian law and to refrain from violence against civilians. However, the U.S. Secretary of State criticized the RSF for their ongoing actions, which have included ethnic cleansing and other serious human rights violations since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan. A recent report from the United Nations' Independent International Fact-Finding Mission for Sudan revealed a range of human rights abuses and potential war crimes committed by various parties involved in the conflict. The report emphasized the urgent need for action to protect civilians amidst the ongoing violence. The conflict in Sudan has escalated significantly, with fighting now affecting over 70% of the country. Reports indicate that at least 20,000 people have died since the conflict began, with local groups suggesting the actual toll may be much higher. The situation remains dire, with continued attacks on civilians and widespread humanitarian violations.