The U.S. has declared the RSF in Sudan responsible for genocide, enacting sanctions against their leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the systematic killings and sexual violence against civilians by RSF, while humanitarian crises worsen amid ongoing conflict. The situation further complicates with international calls to stop arms supplies to involved factions.
The United States has formally accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and associated militias of committing genocide against ethnic groups in Sudan. In his statement, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the RSF’s systematic attacks on civilians and the targeted killings of men and boys based on their ethnicity. In response, the U.S. has implemented sanctions against RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, prohibiting him from entering the U.S. and freezing any U.S.-held assets. As the brutal conflict continues, millions of Sudanese face dire humanitarian crises amidst severe food shortages and health challenges.
Blinken emphasized the need for accountability for those perpetrating such atrocities, noting, “The United States is committed to holding accountable those responsible for these atrocities.” The ongoing warfare between Sudan’s military and the RSF has resulted in substantial loss of life and displacement, with reports estimating tens of thousands of deaths and over 11 million individuals displaced in just a year and a half. Additionally, Blinken condemned the RSF for employing sexual violence as a weapon against women and girls, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Humanitarian organizations are struggling to provide essential services, with the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting rising cholera cases and malnutrition-related deaths. The UN has urged an end to arms supplies to both the RSF and Sudanese military, citing these actions as a facilitation of ongoing atrocities. Notably, sanctions have also been extended to seven companies affiliated with the RSF based in the United Arab Emirates, amid allegations of external support for these militias.
Furthermore, this announcement comes against the backdrop of recent accusations against the U.S. regarding human rights abuses in Gaza, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics and challenges surrounding humanitarian crises in multiple regions.
In recent years, Sudan has experienced escalating violence instigated by power struggles between military factions, particularly the Rapid Support Forces. Formed to combat insurgencies in the Darfur region, the RSF emerged as a predominant player in the ongoing civil conflict, contributing significantly to civilian suffering. The situation has deteriorated, resulting in widespread humanitarian crises, including famine and millions of internally displaced persons. Amidst these developments, the international community has sought to address human rights violations, leading to sanctions and global condemnation of the RSF’s actions.
In summary, the United States has taken a firm stance against the atrocities committed by the RSF in Sudan, identifying their actions as genocide and implementing targeted sanctions. As the humanitarian situation worsens, international pressure mounts on all parties involved to cease hostilities and prioritize civilian safety. The U.S. commitment to accountability underscores the necessity for a coordinated global response to prevent further human rights violations.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
