UK sanctions 15 Sudan commanders over atrocities
The UK also pledged £15 million in aid for survivors and humanitarian operations in Sudan.
The United Kingdom has sanctioned 15 senior commanders from Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for alleged atrocities, including sexual violence. The UK announced this action on the first anniversary of El Fasher’s fall, alongside a pledge of £15 million in new support for survivors and humanitarian efforts.
The sanctions, announced by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, impose travel bans and asset freezes on the targeted individuals. Among those sanctioned are RSF Colonel Hussein Abu Jalak and Al-Nour Ahmed Adam, identified for their roles in the siege and attack on El Fasher. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband stated that UK-funded investigations documented the use of rape and starvation as weapons of war, calling for accountability for perpetrators.
The £15 million aid package includes £5 million for survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, providing healthcare and psychosocial support. An additional £10 million will fund humanitarian operations, such as clean water and sanitation in Tawila displacement sites and health services in El Obeid. This follows reporting by the Centre for Information Resilience on systematic starvation and sexual violence by both sides.
Why it mattersSudanese civilians face continued atrocities and lack of essential services due to the ongoing conflict.