UK sanctions Sudanese commanders for war crimes during El Fasher siege

The United Kingdom has sanctioned 15 Sudanese military commanders, militia leaders, and security officials from both the Rapid Support Forces and Sudanese Armed Forces for war crimes committed during the fall of El Fasher, Al Jazeera reported. These sanctions include travel bans and asset freezes targeting those accused of sexual violence, torture, and attacks on civilians.

The UK Foreign Office stated that the measures aim to ensure global awareness of the atrocities in El Fasher, which saw a prolonged siege, mass killings, widespread sexual violence, and attacks on hospitals, according to Al Jazeera. The sanctions follow UK-funded investigations revealing systematic starvation and conflict-related sexual violence against civilians in Sudan.

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband emphasized the need for accountability for crimes against humanity and called for an end to external support to the warring parties, as reported by Al Jazeera. The Guardian noted that the sanctions coincide with the first anniversary of the mass atrocity in El Fasher, where tens of thousands of civilians were killed over several days.

Specific individuals sanctioned include Hussein Abu Jalak, an RSF colonel linked to atrocities during the siege, and Al-Nour Ahmed Adam, known as “al-Qubba,” who played a prominent role in attacking El Fasher, according to Al Jazeera. The UK government also pledged humanitarian aid and support for Sudanese refugees affected by the conflict.