U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Sudan's Rapid Support Forces Commanders

On February 19, 2026, the United States imposed sanctions on three commanders of Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) due to their involvement in the siege and capture of al-Fashir, which lasted 18 months. The U.S. Treasury Department accused the RSF of conducting a "horrific campaign of ethnic killings, torture, starvation, and sexual violence" during this period. The RSF took control of al-Fashir in October 2025, following a prolonged siege that resulted in significant casualties and humanitarian crises.

The Straits TimesUsNews and World ReportUS Sanctions Three Sudan Commanders Over Mass Killings in al-Fashir

The siege of al-Fashir led to severe famine conditions, with over 100,000 residents estimated to have fled the city since late October 2025. Survivors reported instances of ethnically-motivated mass killings and widespread detentions, with many individuals remaining unaccounted for in both al-Fashir and surrounding areas. The U.S. Treasury also alleged that the RSF engaged in systematic efforts to destroy evidence of mass killings by burying, burning, and disposing of tens of thousands of bodies.

UsNews and World ReportThe Straits TimesUS Sanctions Three Sudan Commanders Over Mass Killings in al-Fashir

In the announcement of the sanctions, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the U.S. government's stance, stating, “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.” This statement reflects the U.S. commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis and holding accountable those responsible for the violence.

The Straits Times

While the sanctions have been welcomed by some human rights advocates, there are concerns regarding their effectiveness. Critics argue that sanctions alone may not halt the violence or lead to meaningful change on the ground. Some local organizations have called for more direct intervention and support for humanitarian efforts in the region, highlighting the need for immediate assistance to those affected by the ongoing conflict.

The Straits Times

There is a lack of comprehensive reporting on the exact number of casualties and the full extent of the humanitarian crisis in al-Fashir. While the U.S. government estimates over 100,000 have fled, local sources may provide differing figures, and many individuals remain unaccounted for. Additionally, the RSF has not publicly responded to the allegations or the sanctions imposed against its commanders.

UsNews and World Report

• “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,” — Scott Bessent, U.S. Treasury Secretary

UsNews and World Report

This situation in Sudan remains fluid, with ongoing violence and humanitarian needs that require urgent attention from the international community.

US Sanctions Three Sudan Commanders Over Mass Killings in al-Fashir