In a decisive move reflecting escalating international concern, the United States has imposed sanctions on General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudan’s army chief, in response to his role in the mounting civilian death toll and the hindrance of humanitarian efforts amid the ongoing civil conflict.
The US Treasury Department announced these sanctions on January 16, 2025, pointing to General Burhan’s pivotal role in “destabilizing Sudan and obstructing the transition to democracy”. The sanctions follow allegations of numerous civilian attacks, including airstrikes targeting schools, markets, and healthcare facilities, all under Burhan’s directive. Furthermore, the US accuses Burhan’s forces of deliberately blocking humanitarian aid, exacerbating the crisis by weaponizing starvation.
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The conflict, now in its 21st month, has ravaged Sudan, leaving tens of thousands dead and displacing over 12 million people. With the nation teetering on the brink of famine, the UN has raised alarm over the rapid spread of famine conditions across large swaths of the country.
The US sanctions against Burhan are the latest in a series of international actions aimed at addressing these atrocities. Previously, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), was similarly sanctioned for his part in the conflict.
Global reactions have been strong, with the UN’s humanitarian chief in Sudan, Clementine Nkweta-Salami, highlighting reports of widespread violence and retaliatory attacks on civilians based on alleged affiliations or ethnic backgrounds. Neighboring countries, like South Sudan, have also voiced their condemnation, summoning Sudanese diplomats to protest against the loss of their citizens’ lives in the conflict.
US special envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, described the situation as “appalling”, calling for immediate investigations and accountability for those responsible for the civilian atrocities. The sanctions on Burhan are part of a broader international effort to curb the humanitarian disaster and push for a negotiated end to the conflict.
Conclusion:
The US sanctions on General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan mark a critical step in the international community’s response to the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. As the conflict continues to claim lives and displace millions, the need for a concerted global effort to bring peace and stability to Sudan becomes ever more pressing. The world watches closely, hoping for an end to the suffering and a renewed path toward peace and democracy for the Sudanese people.
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