US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced today, Wednesday, a significant conclusion by his department after a thorough analysis. He stated that members of the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces have committed war crimes in Sudan.
In a statement released by the US Department of State, Blinken added that members of the Rapid Support Forces and associated armed groups are also guilty of committing crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing.
The statement highlighted the escalation of conflict between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces, leading to severe humanitarian suffering for the population. It called on both sides to halt this conflict and adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law, and to hold those responsible for these atrocities accountable.
Blinken emphasized Washington’s commitment to using all available means to end this needless conflict.
The clashes between the two sides intensified in the capital, Khartoum, yesterday, following the failure of the second round of Jeddah negotiations. Both sides intensified their reciprocal strikes.
The Rapid Support Forces have gained significant control over large areas of Khartoum, forcing the military to retreat in Darfur and Kordofan. Since the end of last month, they have established control over cities like Nyala in South Darfur, Zalingei in the center, and Geneina in the west, as well as Al-Daein in the east, including army divisions and headquarters there.
The ongoing war in Sudan, particularly in the volatile Darfur region, has intensified over the past seven months. This escalation has been marked by significant territorial gains by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), pushing the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) out of several bases. The conflict has resulted in severe humanitarian crises and human rights violations, causing over 6,000 civilian deaths and displacing over 7.1 million people. The UN and partners, despite challenges, have provided life-saving aid to 4.1 million people, which constitutes only 22% of the targeted assistance for 2023
