The United States has made a grave accusation against Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), stating that the paramilitary group has committed genocide during the country’s 20-month conflict.
This determination was made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who cited the RSF’s systematic atrocities against the Sudanese people, including the murder of men, boys, and infants, as well as brutal sexual violence against women on ethnic grounds.
The RSF and its allied militias have also been accused of targeting fleeing civilians and murdering innocent people attempting to escape the conflict.
Blinken’s conclusion is based on extensive documentary evidence, including eyewitness accounts, photographs, and videos.
In response to the US accusations, the RSF has accused the US of double standards and failing to effectively address the ongoing crisis.
Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, the leader of the RSF, has been sanctioned by the US for his role in the atrocities.
The conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese military has been ongoing since April 2023, with a growing outcry over the RSF’s conduct during the war.
The US has imposed sanctions on Hemedti and seven RSF-owned companies based in the United Arab Emirates, as well as one individual for their roles in procuring weapons for the RSF.