UK freezes assets of 15 Sudanese leaders over El Fasher abuses
London imposed sanctions on military and militia figures from both warring sides, citing a year of documented crimes against civilians.
By Charlotte Evans ·
Britain has imposed sanctions on 15 Sudanese military commanders, militia leaders, and security officials. These individuals represent both sides of the ongoing civil war and face travel bans and asset freezes.
The measures target those accused of committing war crimes during the fall of el-Fasher. The UK Foreign Office stated that the goal is to ensure the world understands the events that occurred in the city. The announcement followed the release of reports funded by the UK government. These investigations by the Centre for Information Resilience documented systematic starvation and conflict-related sexual violence.
The sanctions list includes specific figures from the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces. Hussein Abu Jalak, an RSF colonel, is linked to atrocities during the siege. Al-Nour Ahmed Adam, also known as al-Qubba, was identified as playing a prominent role in besieging and attacking the city.
UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband addressed the situation on Monday. He said that those who perpetrated crimes against humanity must be held accountable. Miliband added that support from external backers to the warring parties must end. He described the war in Sudan as a humanitarian catastrophe.
The fall of el-Fasher marks one year since the city became a focal point of the conflict. Civilians there faced a prolonged siege, mass killings, widespread sexual violence, and attacks on hospitals. Miliband noted that UK-funded investigations show rape and starvation are still being used as weapons against the people of Sudan.
The UK has allocated five million pounds, or $6.6 million, to support survivors of sexual violence in Sudan. An additional 10 million pounds, or $13.3 million, is designated for humanitarian aid. These funds aim to address the immediate needs of those affected by the conflict.
According to Amnesty International, tens of thousands of civilians have been killed since the war began in April 2023. The organization reports that 14 million people have been displaced from their homes. The new sanctions package represents the latest diplomatic effort by London to influence the warring factions.
Source: Al Jazeera
