US Imposes Sanctions on Sudanese Military Leader: Allegations of Chemical Weapons Use Against Civilians

The United States has imposed sanctions on General Abdelfattah el-Burhan, head of Sudan's Sovereign Council and commander of the Sudanese Army, following accusations that his forces used chemical weapons against civilians. 

The U.S. Treasury Department cited Burhan's responsibility for a series of deadly attacks, including airstrikes on civilian areas such as schools, markets, and hospitals. The sanctions also address his role in obstructing humanitarian aid and using food as a weapon of war.

In reaction to the sanctions, el-Burhan dismissed their impact, stating, “I have heard about the sanctions targeting the army command; any sanctions that serve the country will be welcomed.”

This move follows a statement by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who expressed "deep sorrow" over the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which remains unresolved despite international efforts. The sanctions against Burhan are seen as more significant than those imposed on the leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which only involved a travel ban to the United States.

Moreover, high-ranking American officials have accused the Sudanese army of using chemical weapons at least twice in its fight against the RSF, which erupted in April 2023. These allegations further highlight the growing international concern over the Sudanese military's conduct during the conflict.

As the situation in Sudan deteriorates, these sanctions mark a critical moment in the international response to the crisis, with broader implications for the future of Sudanese leadership and accountability for war crimes.