The United States has punished Sudan’s military leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, with sanctions, accusing him of being involved in attacks that have killed civilians. According to the US Treasury, Burhan’s actions have destabilized Sudan and blocked efforts for democracy. This comes during a 21-month civil war in Sudan that has left tens of thousands dead and millions without homes. BBC reports that the war has pushed the country closer to famine.
These sanctions freeze any of Burhan’s assets in the US and stop Americans from doing business with him. Aid organizations worry that the army may retaliate by preventing humanitarian aid, even though the US made exceptions for essential supplies.
BBC also highlights that the army, under Burhan, is accused of targeting schools, hospitals, and markets. They’ve even been blamed for blocking food as a weapon of war. The sanctions follow recent reports of civilian deaths in Wad Madani, but the US didn’t mention this in its announcement. Sudan’s foreign ministry has called the sanctions strange and troubling.
Just last week, the US also sanctioned Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), accusing his group of genocide. The RSF and the army have both been blamed for atrocities during the conflict.
The situation in Wad Madani, a key city recaptured by the military, has raised alarm. BBC says civilians there, including foreigners, may have been killed after the city was taken back. Social media videos verified by BBC show horrifying incidents, such as a man being thrown off a bridge and shot. The army and paramilitary groups deny responsibility for many of these actions, blaming each other instead.
South Sudan, a neighboring country, has also raised concerns about its citizens being killed in the violence.
According to the BBC, Sudan’s army accused the RSF of using South Sudanese fighters as mercenaries. However, South Sudan has condemned these killings and asked for accountability.
Both sides of the conflict are accused of war crimes, and BBC stresses that civilians are caught in the middle of this brutal war. While investigations are promised, the ongoing violence raises questions about whether justice will ever come for the victims.
Credit : BBC
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn8x5nkj8pyo