The United States has implemented sanctions against two leaders of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amidst growing concerns over escalating violence in North Darfur.
According to the US Department of the Treasury, the sanctions specifically target Ali Yagoub Gibril, the RSF’s Central Darfur commander, and Osman Mohamed Hamid Mohamed, a major-general overseeing operational planning within the group.
Treasury official Brian Nelson emphasized that while the Sudanese people are calling for an end to the conflict, these commanders are focused on expanding their influence and engaging in territorial battles.
Recent reports indicate that the RSF has surrounded el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, leading to intensified clashes with the Sudanese Armed Forces.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the situation in el-Fasher, where over 800,000 civilians are at risk due to heavy weaponry use in densely populated areas, resulting in civilian casualties and widespread destruction.
Since the conflict erupted in mid-April 2023, an estimated 15,500 individuals have lost their lives in Sudan, with more than 8.8 million people displaced from their homes.
Various human rights organizations have accused both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces of committing war crimes, including deliberate attacks on civilians.
Human Rights Watch highlighted the RSF’s alleged involvement in the deaths of thousands in West Darfur, particularly in the capital, el-Geneina.
Link from www.aljazeera.com
