US Accuses Sudan’s Forces of Genocide During Ongoing Civil Conflict

The United States has condemned Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces for committing genocide, a significant diplomatic move stirring international response.

At a Glance

The US identified genocide by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces amid ongoing civil war.
This marks the second genocide in Sudan in fewer than 30 years.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken imposed sanctions on RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Daglo.
The RSF’s violent acts focus on systematic ethnic violence in Darfur.

Determining Genocide in Sudan

The Biden administration has declared Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) guilty of genocide during the ongoing civil war, marking a significant international stance. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the genocide designation, also imposing sanctions on RSF commander Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, widely known as Hemedti. This is the second genocide acknowledged in Sudan within the last 30 years. The RSF and their actions have been brought into focus, specifically for their systematic violence against ethnic groups.

The US State Department led a thorough examination over several months before reaching this genocide conclusion. The RSF emerged from the Janjaweed militia, notorious for its Darfur atrocities in the 2000s. Formerly utilized by former dictator Omar al-Bashir, the RSF has been accused of targeting ethnic communities in Darfur, with allegations of ethnic cleansing and attacks on civilians based on ethnicity.

Today @SecBlinken announces a determination of genocide by the RSF, and @USTreasury is sanctioning RSF top commander Hemedti for his role in prolonging this conflict and sanctioning 7 companies for their role in procuring weapons for the RSF. These sanctions will further… https://t.co/2SVxXGmd2H

— U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello (@USSESudan) January 7, 2025

Action and Sanctions

In response to these crimes against humanity, the US introduced sanctions directed at Hemedti and seven RSF-linked companies in the UAE, as well as individuals responsible for weapon procurement for the RSF. Visa restrictions hit Hemedti and his family due to confirmed human rights violations in Darfur. The US Treasury Department sanctioned Hemedti and entities connected to him, including UAE-based firms. These measures aim to apply pressure on the RSF by targeting their international networks and financial resources.

“The Biden administration said it has determined that Sudan’s paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces, is committing genocide in the country’s ongoing civil war.” – Biden administration

Despite extensive evidence, the Sudanese Armed Forces have not faced implications under US sanctions or the genocide determination. The ongoing conflict results in a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with mass displacement, famine, and severe suffering affecting millions across Sudan. This determination by the Biden administration could instigate further international measures against the RSF and their collaborators.

NEW: Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed genocide over the course of the more than year-long civil war in Sudan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday.

This is the second genocide committed in Sudan in less than three decades.

— Jennifer Hansler (@jmhansler) January 7, 2025

Impact and Future Implications

The ongoing struggle between the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces continues to wreak havoc, with tens of thousands dead and millions displaced. The conflict has drawn international condemnation and criticism. If this situation persists, Sudan’s plight risks being overlooked amidst global crises. The genocide declaration by the US highlights the significance of international vigilance, underlining the necessity of holding perpetrators accountable for their roles in one of the worst atrocities in modern history.

Blinken’s declaration, combined with the international condemnation of RSF actions, serves as a compelling call to action. Ensuring justice and accountability for the suffering in Sudan requires global cooperation and determination. As the international community responds to these developments, critical logistical and humanitarian support must reach those trapped in conflict zones.