UK Sanctions Sudan RSF Commanders Over Atrocities in El Fasher

The UK has sanctioned four senior commanders of Sudan’s RSF, including deputy leader Abdul Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, over atrocities in El Fasher involving killings, sexual violence, and attacks on civilians. The sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans, alongside a £21 million humanitarian aid package, while the UK urges an end to the war and protection of civilians.

The United Kingdom has announced sanctions against four senior commanders of Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in response to alleged atrocities committed in the city of El Fasher. The move comes as part of international efforts to hold individuals accountable for widespread violence in Darfur. Among those targeted is Abdul Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, the deputy leader of the RSF and brother of the group’s chief commander, General Hemedti. Dagalo had already been sanctioned by the European Union in November, reflecting growing concern over his role in the conflict.

The other three officers sanctioned by the UK include Gedo Hamdan Ahmed, the RSF commander for North Darfur; Brigadier-General Al-Fateh Abdullah Idris; and Field Commander Tijani Ibrahim Moussa Mohamed. The sanctions include asset freezes and travel bans, effectively restricting their financial activities and international movements.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the severity of the sanctions, stating, “Today’s sanctions against RSF commanders strike directly at those with blood on their hands.” The targeted commanders are accused of committing mass killings, sexual violence, and deliberate attacks on civilians during the RSF’s takeover of El Fasher. The city, previously the last stronghold of the Sudanese army in Darfur, fell to the RSF in October after an 18-month siege that left a trail of devastation. Health workers, humanitarian organizations, and survivors have documented extensive massacres, systematic violence, and other atrocities carried out by the paramilitary forces.

The UK government condemned the RSF’s actions as part of “a deliberate strategy to terrorize populations and seize control through fear and violence.” Alongside the sanctions, the British government announced a £21 million humanitarian aid package to support civilians affected by the conflict. Authorities also called on all parties involved in the Sudanese war to end hostilities and ensure the protection of civilians, stressing the urgent need for peace and stability in the region.

Despite widespread reports linking the United Arab Emirates to support for the RSF, the UK did not impose sanctions against the UAE. The decision reflects a complex diplomatic balancing act, as the international community continues to navigate accountability measures while attempting to maintain channels for humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution in Sudan. The sanctions represent a significant step in applying pressure on RSF leadership while underscoring the UK’s commitment to upholding human rights and protecting vulnerable populations in conflict zones.