Sudanese Military Official Sanctioned by US for Role in Fueling Conflict

Washington — The United States imposed sanctions on Thursday against Mirghani Idris Suleiman, a leading figure in the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) efforts to get weapons for the war against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the Treasury Department said in a statement.

Key Figure in Fueling the War

As director of Defense Industries Systems (DIS), the Sudanese army’s primary weapons procurement arm, "Idris has been at the center of weapons deals that have fueled the brutality and scale of the war," the statement said.

Prolonging the Fighting

"Today’s action underscores the essential role that key individuals like Mirghani Idris Suleiman have played in procuring weapons, perpetuating violence, and prolonging the fighting in Sudan," said Bradley Smith, acting under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence.

Previous Sanctions on DIS

DIS was sanctioned last year by Treasury.

The Ongoing Conflict

Sudan’s army did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has seized control of large parts of Sudan in a conflict with the army that the United Nations says has caused one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

The Humanitarian Impact

The war has displaced more than 10 million people, driven parts of the country to extreme hunger or famine, and drawn in foreign powers that have given both sides material support.

FAQs

• Who was sanctioned by the US?
  Mirghani Idris Suleiman, a leading figure in the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) efforts to get weapons for the war against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
• What was he sanctioned for?
  Fueling the brutality and scale of the war with weapons deals.
• What was the focus of the sanctions?
  To target key individuals like Mirghani Idris Suleiman who have played a role in procuring weapons, perpetuating violence, and prolonging the fighting in Sudan.