Britain targets 15 Sudan war figures with freezes

Britain has placed 15 Sudanese military commanders, militia leaders, and security officials on its sanctions list. The measures target figures from both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces. The UK government accused these individuals of committing war crimes during the fall of el-Fasher.

The new rules include travel bans and asset freezes. The Foreign Office stated the goal is to ensure the world knows about the horrors that took place in the city. This action follows a report funded by the UK from the Centre for Information Resilience. That report documented a campaign of systematic starvation and conflict-related sexual violence against civilians.

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband announced the decision on Monday. He said those who perpetrated crimes against humanity must be held accountable. Miliband also argued that support from external backers to the warring parties must end. He described the conflict as a humanitarian catastrophe.

Specific individuals named in the list include Hussein Abu Jalak, an RSF colonel linked to atrocities during the siege. The list also includes Al-Nour Ahmed Adam, known as al-Qubba, who played a prominent role in besieging and attacking the city. Both men are accused of involvement in sexual violence, torture, and attacks on civilians.

The sanctions mark the first anniversary of the fall of el-Fasher. The city became a focal point of the war last year as civilians faced a prolonged siege. Reports from that period described mass killings, widespread sexual violence, and attacks on hospitals. Miliband noted that UK-funded investigations show rape and starvation are still being weaponised against the Sudanese people.

To support those affected, the UK has allocated five million pounds, or $6.6 million, to help survivors of sexual violence. The government has also committed another 10 million pounds, or $13.3 million, in humanitarian aid. These funds aim to address the immediate needs of the population.

Amnesty International reports that tens of thousands of civilians have been killed since the war began in April 2023. The organization says 14 million people have been displaced from their homes. The new sanctions are part of the UK’s ongoing effort to pressure both sides of the conflict.

The next steps for the UK government include monitoring compliance with the new travel bans and asset freezes. Officials will also track the use of the newly allocated humanitarian funds. The Foreign Office plans to review the list of sanctioned individuals as new evidence emerges.