The U.S. Treasury sanctioned three Rapid Support Forces commanders for atrocities during the siege and capture of El-Fasher, Sudan, citing ethnic killings, torture, starvation, and sexual violence. The Office of Foreign Assets Control announced the action in Washington as part of efforts to pressure the paramilitary group amid Sudan’s ongoing civil war.
The sanctions target individuals linked to the Rapid Support Forces’ campaign in North Darfur, where prolonged fighting has driven mass displacement and humanitarian collapse. The Treasury Department said the action aligns with coordinated measures previously taken by the United Kingdom and European Union.
CAPTURING EL-FASHER
The U.S. Department of the Treasury reported that RSF forces besieged El-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, from May 2024 to October 2025. During this period, fighters surrounded the city, blocked aid routes, and launched repeated attacks on civilian areas and displacement camps. As a result, approximately 260,000 civilians were trapped with limited access to food, water, and medical care.
Meanwhile, Treasury officials stated that RSF fighters carried out summary executions, torture, and sexual violence targeting civilians based on ethnic identity.
The department also reported that massacres occurred as residents attempted to flee, and killings intensified after the city fell on October 26, 2025. These actions contributed to widespread disease outbreaks and famine conditions across the region.
| Indicator | Recent Movement | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | Over 14 million displaced | U.S. Treasury cited figures from the ongoing Sudan conflict |
| Fatalities | More than 150,000 deaths | Treasury described Sudan as the world’s worst humanitarian crisis |
| Civilians trapped | Estimated 260,000 | OFAC reported prolonged siege conditions in El-Fasher |
- Humanitarian risk: Treasury warned the conflict could destabilize the region and enable terrorist groups to expand operations
- International alignment: The United Kingdom and European Union designated the same individuals in December 2025 and January 2026
- Ceasefire call: Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged the RSF to agree to an immediate humanitarian ceasefire
RSF Commanders Designated
The Office of Foreign Assets Control identified Brigadier General Elfateh Abdullah Idris Adam, Major General Gedo Hamdan Ahmed Mohamed, and field commander Tijani Ibrahim Moussa Mohamed as responsible for operations in North Darfur. Treasury stated that Idris filmed himself killing unarmed civilians and executing captives, actions cited as evidence supporting the sanctions designation.
Additionally, Treasury reported that Gedo and Tijani held leadership roles during the siege and capture of El-Fasher, where RSF fighters allegedly committed mass killings, abductions, and sexual violence.
The department said the commanders were documented at a captured Sudanese Armed Forces base following the city’s fall. These findings formed part of the legal basis for designation under Executive Order 14098.
Legal Authority for Sanctions
The Treasury Department designated the individuals under Executive Order 14098, issued in May 2023, which authorizes sanctions against persons destabilizing Sudan and undermining democratic transition efforts. According to OFAC, the order covers acts such as targeting civilians, committing violence including rape or torture, and threatening peace or security.
Under U.S. sanctions law, all property and interests of designated individuals within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. Furthermore, entities owned 50 percent or more by sanctioned persons are also subject to blocking measures. Treasury noted that U.S. persons are generally prohibited from conducting transactions involving these individuals without authorization.
Sanctions Implications
Treasury stated that violations of sanctions regulations may result in civil or criminal penalties for U.S. and foreign persons. OFAC emphasized that enforcement operates on a strict liability basis, meaning penalties can be imposed even without intent. Financial institutions may also face exposure for facilitating prohibited transactions involving blocked persons.
Meanwhile, the department noted that sanctions aim to influence behavior rather than serve solely as punishment. OFAC allows designated individuals to petition for removal from the Specially Designated Nationals list if circumstances change.
Authorities also highlighted the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network whistleblower program, which offers potential awards for information leading to enforcement actions exceeding $1 million.
Quotes
“The United States calls on the Rapid Support Forces to commit to a humanitarian ceasefire immediately. We will not tolerate this ongoing campaign of terror and senseless killing in Sudan,”
said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent.
“Without a swift end, Sudan’s civil war risks further destabilizing the region, creating conditions for terrorist groups to grow and threaten the safety and interests of the United States.”
In Conclusion
The Treasury Department’s action reflects continued U.S. efforts to pressure the Rapid Support Forces amid a civil war that has produced mass displacement and regional instability. By targeting senior commanders, officials aim to constrain the group’s ability to operate internationally and access financial systems.
The sanctions also underscore coordination with European allies and the use of existing executive authorities to address human rights abuses without direct military involvement. Treasury officials said lasting peace will require an end to hostilities between the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces.
Sources: U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources.
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