U.S. Accuses Sudanese Paramilitary Group of Genocide, Imposes Sanctions
The Biden administration has officially accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a Sudanese paramilitary group, of committing genocide in the ongoing civil war against Sudan’s military. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the escalation from war crimes and ethnic cleansing to genocide based on recent reports, marking a significant development in the conflict that has ravaged Sudan for nearly two years.
The conflict, now considered the world’s largest current humanitarian crisis, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and millions of displaced individuals. Blinken stated that the RSF and allied militias have systematically targeted civilians, committing murders on an ethnic basis. Reports indicate that women and girls from specific ethnic groups have been subjected to rape and brutal sexual violence, while RSF militias have attacked fleeing civilians and obstructed access to essential supplies.
In response to these atrocities, the U.S. Treasury Department has announced sanctions against RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Daglo Mousa, also known as Hemedti, and seven RSF-owned companies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE has been accused of arming the RSF, despite its denials. These sanctions aim to hold the RSF accountable for war crimes and promote human rights in the region.
The humanitarian impact of the conflict has been devastating. Official reports indicate over 28,000 deaths, though some estimates suggest higher numbers. Millions have been displaced, and famine conditions are affecting parts of Sudan, with civilians resorting to extreme measures such as eating grass to survive.
Blinken emphasized that the genocide determination is meant to promote accountability rather than support either side of the conflict. Experts like John Prendergast have highlighted the RSF’s responsibility for atrocities and view the U.S. actions as a step towards accountability.
The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum acknowledged the decision as a recognition of the severe crimes suffered by neglected populations. As the situation in Sudan remains dire, with ongoing violence and humanitarian needs, the international community watches closely for further developments and responses to this crisis.
