The United States has officially declared that Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces are carrying out acts of genocide amidst the country’s civil conflict.
At a Glance
- The Biden administration determined genocide by the RSF in Sudan.
- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken sanctioned RSF commander Hemedti.
- The RSF is accused of systematic ethnic violence in Darfur.
- The conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with widespread displacement.
US Declares Genocide
The Biden administration has officially announced that the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan are committing genocide during the ongoing civil war. Secretary of State Antony Blinken declared the determination and emphasized the systematic atrocities committed by the RSF and allied militias. This is a haunting reminder of Sudan’s past, marking only the second time in three decades that genocide has been identified in the region.
Blinken has imposed sanctions on Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, commonly known as Hemedti, the leader of the RSF. These sanctions target both Hemedti and several RSF-linked companies based in the UAE. The U.S. administration is taking a firm stand against those fueling the violence and aims to halt the systemic ethnic cleansing by restricting resources available to the RSF.
The United States declared on Tuesday that Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias have committed genocide, citing widespread atrocities against civilians. As a result of this determination, the U.S. imposed sanctions on its leader, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo "Hemetti".… pic.twitter.com/fnWH1ZUT1J
— Sudan Tribune (@SudanTribune_EN) January 7, 2025
The Atrocities in Darfur
The RSF, an offshoot of the Janjaweed militias, became notorious in the early 2000s for their violent actions in Darfur. The current conflict has revived dreadful memories of the past genocides. Recent allegations point to targeted attacks on ethnic minorities, such as the Masalit, culminating in a perilous humanitarian crisis within the Darfur region.
“The Biden administration said it has determined that Sudan’s paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces, is committing genocide in the country’s ongoing civil war.” – Biden administration
Genocide accusations were not aimed at the Sudanese Armed Forces, although both sides have been implicated in war crimes. The RSF stands out for its aggressive ethnic targeting and blocking of essential supplies, deepening the crisis affecting millions with famine and displacement, marking one of the direst global humanitarian situations.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and its allied militias are committing genocide in Sudan while waging war against the army for control of the country, Joe Biden's US administration has determined – two weeks before leaving office.
🔗 Read more https://t.co/8bbqJGiYpo
— Sky News (@SkyNews) January 7, 2025
Global Repercussions and Future Actions
The U.S. State Department’s lengthy deliberations acknowledged the gravity of the situation by labeling it genocide, paving the way for further international jurisdiction. The global community is now encouraged to step up, with anticipations of additional sanctions and measures against those responsible for the atrocities.
Blinken also announced visa restrictions on Hemedti and his family due to these violent acts in Darfur. Sanctions have dual intentions: to prevent further violence in Sudan and to send a strong message globally about the U.S. commitment to human rights protection.
Sources
1. US declares Sudan’s paramilitary forces have committed genocide during civil war
2. U.S. declares genocide in Sudan
