U.S. Sanctions on Sudan: Military's Use of Chemical Weapons Condemned

In a decisive move, the United States is preparing to enact sanctions on Sudan's military government after credible reports of chemical weapon usage. An announcement from the State Department confirmed the findings, revealing that the military has violated the Chemical Weapons Convention which prohibits the use of such munitions. Despite minimal details shared regarding the specific incidents, it is noted that two instances of chlorine gas deployment occurred against the Rapid Support Forces (R.S.F.) during the ongoing civil war in Sudan.

The military's assaults have primarily been concentrated in remote regions, although there are concerns that such tactics could spill over into urban areas like Khartoum. Additional skepticism from the Sudanese public about the claims arises from the lack of extensive local media coverage documenting these attacks. However, American officials maintain that the scale of the chemical weapon usage has been limited and largely ineffectual.

This latest allegation represents a troubling escalation in the ongoing conflict that has uprooted millions and led to immense humanitarian crises since violence erupted in April 2023. The U.S. holds both sides accountable for wartime atrocities, although only the R.S.F. has been labeled guilty of genocide by the American government. Sanctions previously imposed address high-ranking military leaders with expectations of keeping pressure on those implicated in war crimes.

The sanctions are scheduled to go into effect on June 6, aiming to restrict Sudan's ability to access American loans and exports, while simultaneously reinforcing the call for the cessation of chemical weapon usage. The State Department has reiterated its commitment to accountability for any violations of international weapons treaties.