US Government Condemns Sudanese Forces in Civil Conflict: Genocide Declared

The United States has declared the actions of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces as genocide, marking a grim chapter in the ongoing civil war.

At a Glance

The Biden administration labels Sudan’s RSF actions as genocide.
This is Sudan’s second genocide declaration in under 30 years.
Antony Blinken sanctions RSF leader Hemedti.
RSF accused of ethnic violence and blocking essential supplies.
The conflict created severe humanitarian crises and mass displacement.

Genocide Declared Amid Sudan’s Civil War

The Biden administration has determined that the actions of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during the ongoing civil war amount to genocide. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made this announcement, underscoring the gravity of ethnic violence in the region. Punitive measures have been imposed against RSF commander Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemedti.

Ethnic violence by the RSF, particularly in Darfur, has spurred international condemnation. The RSF’s root in the notorious Janjaweed militias, responsible for previous atrocities, highlights their ongoing brutality. The US declaration aims to galvanize a global response and bring perpetrators to justice.

Today @SecBlinken announces a determination of genocide by the RSF, and @USTreasury is sanctioning RSF top commander Hemedti for his role in prolonging this conflict and sanctioning 7 companies for their role in procuring weapons for the RSF. These sanctions will further… https://t.co/2SVxXGmd2H

— U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan Tom Perriello (@USSESudan) January 7, 2025

Sanctions and International Pressure

The US has imposed sanctions on Hemedti and seven RSF-related companies in the UAE. Visa restrictions target Hemedti and his family for alleged human rights violations. These measures seek to squeeze the RSF economically and politically.

“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

The US conducted extensive deliberations before concluding RSF and their allied militias committed these crimes. Previous Sudanese militia actions continue to cast a shadow. The current determination may encourage further international actions.

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

Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis

The 2023 civil war between RSF and Sudan Armed Forces resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis. Mass famine and displacement have affected millions, compounding the dire situation.

“The designation intends not only to highlight ongoing atrocities but also to mobilize worldwide assistance and intervention in one of the worst humanitarian crises of our time.” – Source from US State Department.

This conflict adds to Sudan’s turbulent history, having experienced another genocide less than 30 years ago. As the world watches, the determination may prompt broader global efforts to mitigate the disaster.