El Fasher Anniversary: UK sanctions 15 Sudanese leaders

The war in Sudan has entered its fourth year with the death toll reaching tens of thousands and 14 million people displaced, according to Amnesty International. Against this backdrop, the United Kingdom announced new sanctions targeting 15 individuals from both sides of the conflict.

The UK Foreign Office sanctioned 15 military commanders, militia leaders, and security officials. The list includes figures from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The specific charges against these individuals involve sexual violence, torture, and attacks on civilians.

The sanctions package imposes travel bans and asset freezes on the named individuals. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband stated that external backers of the warring parties must end their support. He emphasized that those who perpetrated crimes against humanity must be held accountable.

The decision followed the release of a report by the Centre for Information Resilience. This UK-funded investigation documented a campaign of systematic starvation and conflict-related sexual violence. The Foreign Office noted that the goal is to ensure the horrors of El Fasher are known to the world.

El Fasher fell one year ago after a prolonged siege. During that period, civilians reported mass killings, widespread sexual violence, and attacks on hospitals. Miliband described the situation as a humanitarian catastrophe where rape and starvation remain weaponized.

Two specific figures were identified in the announcement. Hussein Abu Jalak, an RSF colonel, was linked to atrocities during the siege. Al-Nour Ahmed Adam, known as al-Qubba, was identified as playing a prominent role in besieging and attacking the city.

Alongside the sanctions, the UK allocated five million pounds, approximately $6.6 million, to support survivors of sexual violence. The government also committed another 10 million pounds, or $13.3 million, in humanitarian aid to the region.