The UN Security Council unanimously decided on Wednesday to extend its longstanding sanctions against Sudan by adopting Resolution 2750. Set under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, this extension prolongs the sanctions for an additional year, effectively maintaining asset freezes, travel bans, and an arms embargo until September 12, 2025. A further review is scheduled to be conducted no later than that date.
Resolution 2750 extends the sanctions originally established by Resolution 1591 and renewed by Resolution 2676 earlier this year. The negotiations for this resolution proceeded smoothly, led by the United States, which drafted the text ensuring it incorporated updates from subsequent resolutions, including Resolution 2725. However, there were some disagreements over specific elements of the sanctions.
The conflict in Darfur remains severe and multifaceted, with ongoing violence, human rights abuses, and a dire humanitarian situation. The region suffers from intensified fighting between various armed groups, including the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces, resulting in widespread displacement and severe restrictions on humanitarian aid. During the Council meeting, representatives stressed the need for continuous international pressure to hold violators accountable and promote peace in Sudan.
The representative of the US noted that the renewed sanctions signal international commitment to addressing the pressing issues in Darfur, aiming to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and advance peace and security. The UK representative highlighted a recent UN fact-finding mission report documenting systematic human rights abuses by both the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese Armed Forces, urging states to help bring about a negotiated resolution rather than enhancing the conflict through support.
Conversely, the representative of Sudan condemned the ongoing attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, particularly by the Rapid Support Forces militias using heavy artillery and other prohibited weapons. The condemnation extended to the role of the United Arab Emirates in allegedly supporting these militias and benefiting from illegal gold exploitation in the region. Sudan called for targeted sanctions against the militias and associated businesses, emphasizing the need for international actions to compel aggressors to offer compensation for the damage and losses incurred.
Resolution 2750 underscores the international community’s persistent dedication to accountability and upholding international regulations in conflict zones.
For additional details on Resolution 2750 and the Security Council proceedings, see the full article on JURIST.