The United States has announced upcoming sanctions against Sudan after determining that the Sudanese government used chemical weapons during 2024 in its conflict with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
According to a statement released by the U.S. State Department on Thursday, Sudan was found in violation of its commitments under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). The official determination has been submitted to Congress, triggering a 15-day notification period before sanctions are enacted.
Once in effect, the sanctions will restrict U.S. exports to Sudan and block the country’s access to U.S. government credit lines. The measures are expected to be formally implemented on or around June 6, following publication in the Federal Register.
“The United States urges the Sudanese government to immediately halt the use of chemical weapons and comply fully with its international obligations,” the statement said. “We remain committed to holding accountable those responsible for spreading and using such weapons.”
The decision comes amid a devastating conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, ongoing since April 2023. The fighting has plunged the country into a severe humanitarian disaster. United Nations estimates report over 20,000 deaths and at least 15 million displaced. However, some academic research in the U.S. suggests the death toll could be as high as 130,000.
The use of chemical weapons—if further substantiated—would mark a significant escalation in a conflict already marked by reports of mass atrocities, targeting of civilians, and widespread destruction.
International observers are now calling for urgent diplomatic engagement and accountability mechanisms to prevent further violations.