State Department Points to Paramilitary Group RSF and Allied Militias as Perpetrators
In a stern stance against the deeply concerning issue of conflict-related sexual violence in Sudan, the United States voiced its condemnation on Friday. Citing credible sources, including victims, the US State Department attributed this disturbing trend to the Paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) along with their associated militias.
The State Department's statement acknowledged the distressing nature of the reports detailing rape, gang rape, and other forms of gender-based violence inflicted upon women and girls, primarily in regions such as West Darfur. These acts of brutality, the statement highlighted, contribute to an unsettling pattern of targeted ethnic violence that is on the rise.
A particularly alarming concern centers around the situation unfolding in and around Nyala, located in South Darfur. The State Department expressed grave worry as tens of thousands of civilians find themselves trapped amid escalating hostilities between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
In response to the dire circumstances, the United States issued a call to action. Specifically, the RSF and SAF were urged to put an immediate stop to the ongoing fighting. Additionally, a plea was made to allow safe passage for all civilians who are caught in the crossfire and seeking to escape the city's perilous environment.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community's attention remains fixed on the growing humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The condemnatory stance taken by the United States underscores the urgency of addressing conflict-related sexual violence and safeguarding the lives and dignity of civilians caught in the midst of turmoil.