The United States has determined that members of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias in Sudan have committed genocide. This conclusion follows a series of brutal attacks against civilians, which began with the conflict launched by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and RSF on April 15, 2023. The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, affecting millions and resulting in widespread famine and loss of life.
In December 2023, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken concluded that war crimes had been committed by both SAF and RSF members. He also found evidence of crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing perpetrated by the RSF and allied Arab militias. The systematic targeting of civilians, including ethnic-based killings and sexual violence, formed the basis for this determination.
To address these atrocities, the U.S. is imposing sanctions on Mohammad Hamdan Daglo Mousa, known as Hemedti, leader of the RSF. Sanctions are also being placed on seven RSF-owned companies based in the United Arab Emirates and one individual involved in procuring weapons for the RSF. Furthermore, Hemedti is designated under Section 7031(c) for gross human rights violations in Darfur, including mass rape conducted by soldiers under his command. As a result, Hemedti and his immediate family are barred from entering the United States.
Hemedti has disregarded international humanitarian law commitments outlined in documents like the "Jeddah Declaration of Commitment to Protect Civilians of Sudan" from 2023 and a 2024 Code of Conduct aimed at preventing war crimes such as sexual violence.
The U.S. stresses that it does not support either side in this conflict; both parties bear responsibility for ongoing violence and suffering in Sudan. The U.S. continues to explore further actions to hold accountable those responsible for perpetuating these conflicts while supporting Sudanese aspirations for a democratic future through initiatives like a $30 million fund announced last December to aid civil society actors.
These measures align with Executive Order 14098 on sanctioning individuals destabilizing Sudan's democratic transition goals. More details are available through Treasury's press release.
