The Biden administration on Tuesday made a significant announcement regarding the situation in Sudan, labeling the actions of a paramilitary group and its allies as genocide. This marks an escalation in the international response to what is described as the largest current humanitarian disaster.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s statement marks a shift from his prior conclusions in December 2023 concerning war crimes and ethnic cleansing. Recent information indicates that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed acts of genocide, according to the U.S. government.
In response to these findings, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced sanctions targeting RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Daglo Mousa, also known as Hemedti, as well as seven companies associated with the RSF situated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Blinken emphasized that, “The RSF and RSF-aligned militias have continued to direct attacks against civilians.” He further stated that these groups have systematically executed males, including young boys, based on ethnic identity, and have deliberately targeted women and girls for sexual violence.
The war in Sudan, which began in April 2023 between the RSF and the national military, has resulted in over 24,000 deaths and displaced millions. Families face dire conditions, with some resorting to consuming grass as famine sweeps parts of the nation. Some reports suggest the death toll may be even higher.
The sanctions also affect several companies in the UAE, involved in activities such as the trafficking of smuggled gold from Sudan. The UAE has been accused of supplying arms to the RSF, though it denies these allegations. On the issue, UAE officials have yet to offer a public response.
Blinken clarified that his determination is not intended to show favoritism towards any party in the conflict but aims to ensure accountability for war crimes and atrocities committed. “The RSF and allied militias have targeted fleeing civilians, murdering innocent people escaping conflict, and have prevented remaining civilians from accessing lifesaving supplies,” he said.
The U.S. has taken a firm stance against what it views as genocidal actions by the RSF in Sudan, as highlighted by the announced sanctions. This decision underscores the international community’s growing concern and calls for accountability amidst an ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Source: News4jax
