U.S. Declares Genocide by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces Amid Ongoing Civil War

SDSudan|

The United States has formally declared that Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have committed genocide during the country's civil war, marking a significant moment in the ongoing humanitarian crisis. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the determination on January 7, 2025, detailing a pattern of systematic ethnic violence primarily in west Darfur, where the RSF has been accused of targeting civilians, obstructing access to vital supplies, and committing atrocities against specific ethnic groups.

Blinken's statement followed months of deliberation, concluding that the RSF and allied militias had engaged in crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing. He highlighted the disturbing acts of violence, including the systematic murder of men and boys, targeting of women and girls for sexual violence, and massacres of fleeing civilians.

In light of these findings, Blinken imposed sanctions on RSF commander Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemedti, and announced sanctions against several entities linked to the RSF, including companies in the United Arab Emirates believed to facilitate arms procurement.

The civil war, which erupted in 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, displacing around 12 million people. The conflict primarily stems from a breakdown of an alliance between Hemedti and Sudanese army general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.

The U.S. designation of genocide comes nearly two decades after a previous declaration about atrocities committed in Darfur by the RSF's predecessor, the Janjaweed militias. The recent genocide determination, alongside the imposition of sanctions, may pave the way for further international actions against the RSF and those supporting its operations.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from Sudan

Sudanese Civil War Leads to Devastating Humanitarian Crisis

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has displaced over 13 million people, resulting in a profound humanitarian crisis, according to NDTV. The conflict, which escalated after violent clashes erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in 2023, has left millions facing severe food insecurity and lack of access to education. Testimonies from individuals such as Mohammed Zakaria of the Sudan Liberation Army Movement reveal the impact of the turmoil, with families scattered across several countries, including Libya and South Sudan. "Right now, all my family members are refugees in different countries," Zakaria stated. The violence has also resulted in numerous atrocities, including killings and sexual violence, with social media playing a significant role in raising awareness of these issues. More than 29 million people are reportedly in need of assistance, highlighting the dire situation on the ground. Recent military actions have seen the SAF claim some victories against the RSF, yet reports indicate the ongoing volatility and fighting in regions such as North Darfur, complicating efforts for stability and peace.
SDSudan

Sudanese Military Accused of Massacre in Darfur Airstrike

The Sudanese military is facing accusations of killing hundreds in an airstrike on the Tur'rah market in the Darfur region, according to the Emergency Lawyers group, which documents human rights abuses in the ongoing civil war. Reports suggest the bombing occurred on Monday and has been described as the "deadliest single bombing since the beginning of the war" that erupted in April 2023. Eyewitness videos shared on social media, including those from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), show devastating scenes of destruction and loss. A military spokesperson refuted claims of civilian targeting, stating that the operation was aimed at legitimate hostile targets. However, both the Sudanese armed forces and the RSF have been accused of indiscriminately shelling civilian areas during the conflict. The UN reports that over 12 million people have been displaced in Sudan, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis marked by widespread food insecurity affecting more than half the population. The fallout from the airstrike continues to raise concerns regarding civilian safety amidst ongoing hostilities in the region.
SDSudan

Sudanese Women's Voices Marginalized in War Narratives and Political Discourse

A recent analysis highlights the systematic exclusion of Sudanese women’s experiences in narratives surrounding the ongoing war in Sudan. According to research by Aida Abbashar, traditional war narratives often prioritize male perspectives, disregarding the significant roles women play in resistance and humanitarian efforts. This exclusion not only reinforces patriarchal structures but also affects policy-making and post-war reconstruction initiatives, leaving women's contributions overlooked. The conflict, which began in April 2023, is primarily a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Despite their crucial presence in protests and civil society movements throughout Sudan’s history, women remain marginalized in governance and decision-making roles, even in post-conflict settings. Scholars argue that acknowledging women’s agency and contributions is essential for effective governance and rebuilding efforts in post-war Sudan. The ongoing war puts women at heightened risk of violence and displacement, further complicating their already precarious status. For sustainable peace, their voices must be included in both historical documentation and forthcoming political frameworks, as suggested by experts in feminist and postcolonial studies.
SDSudan
All Sudan News ->