The United States accused Sudan’s RSF of genocide, imposing sanctions on its leader, Hemedti, for his role in systematic atrocities during the conflict. Antony Blinken highlighted the RSF’s responsibility for numerous heinous acts against civilians. The growing humanitarian crisis, marked by significant casualties and famine, calls for urgent international attention and resolution efforts.
The United States has formally accused the Sudanese paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of committing genocide against the Sudanese populace and has imposed sanctions on its leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Dagalo is being held accountable for his role in extensive atrocities throughout the prolonged 20-month conflict. Blinken condemned the RSF for orchestrating systematic violence, which includes the murder of civilians across multiple age groups and the perpetration of sexual violence against women based on ethnic affiliations.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has escalated since April 2023, primarily involving the RSF and the Sudanese military. These factions have been implicated in severe human rights violations, contributing to an alarming humanitarian crisis characterized by famine affecting nearly half of the population. As of May, estimates indicated that the conflict has claimed as many as 150,000 lives. Blinken remarked that neither the RSF nor the Sudanese military possesses the legitimacy to govern in a peaceful future for the country, as both share responsibility for the escalating violence.
The U.S. government’s assertion of genocide against the RSF signifies a critical stance towards the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The sanctions against Hemedti and other entities associated with the RSF aim to hold accountable those responsible for grave human rights violations. The situation in Sudan remains precarious, highlighting the urgent necessity for effective international intervention and support to resolve the deepening crisis.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
