US Sanctions Sudan Army Chief Amid Ongoing Civil War and Humanitarian Crisis

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The United States has imposed sanctions on Sudan's army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, in response to his government's actions during the ongoing civil war that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions. The US Treasury Department announced the sanctions, citing Burhan's leadership in indiscriminate bombing of civilian locations, assaults on schools and hospitals, and extrajudicial executions.

This action follows previous sanctions against Burhan's rival, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), after allegations of genocide against his forces. The recent sanctions symbolize Washington's intent to maintain neutrality while acknowledging the severe humanitarian repercussions of the conflict.

Burhan responded defiantly to the sanctions, asserting that any punitive measures would be welcomed as efforts to defend Sudan. The US sanctions block any US assets held by Burhan and related entities, while allowing specific transactions to facilitate humanitarian aid efforts.

The civil war erupted in April 2023 and has led to a severe food crisis affecting half of the Sudanese population. The US and Saudi Arabia have attempted to mediate peace talks, but the Sudanese army has largely rejected these initiatives.

In a recent press conference, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed regret over the failure to resolve the fighting and highlighted the ongoing humanitarian needs in Sudan.

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