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Civil war

Senators Urge Action on Sudan Crisis, Cite Genocide and Threat to US National Security

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), chairman and ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, respectively, have expressed horror and concern over the ongoing civil war in Sudan. The conflict, now in its third year, has devastated the country, shattered Sudanese society, and destabilized the region. The senators are calling for immediate action to end the war and ensure unhindered humanitarian access.

Key Takeaways:

  • The senators are horrified by the ongoing civil war in Sudan, citing genocide and atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) against civilians.
  • The RSF and SAF have committed atrocities against civilians, pursued a zero-sum war, and received support from foreign backers, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Russia, Iran, China, and governments in the immediate region.
  • The conflict poses a grave risk to the United States, threatening national security and economic stability due to Sudan's location on the Red Sea and its history as a haven for terrorists.
  • The senators urge the warring parties and their foreign backers to work with the United States and its partners to end the war immediately.
  • The U.S.-led "Quad" diplomacy with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE is seen as an important step towards a lasting peace, provided that all parties engage in good faith negotiations and ensure meaningful participation by Sudanese civilians.
  • The civil war has resulted in one of the world's worst and most underreported humanitarian crises, with the RSF carrying out genocide and other mass atrocities against non-Arab communities and perceived opponents.

Statistics:

  • The civil war in Sudan has lasted for over three years, starting on April 15, 2023.
  • The war has devastated the country, smashing Sudanese society, and destabilizing the region.
  • The RSF and SAF have committed atrocities against civilians, with the RSF's genocide in Darfur perpetuated by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias.
  • The foreign backers of the RSF and SAF, including the UAE, Russia, Iran, China, and governments in the immediate region, have fueled and profited from the conflict.

Sources:

  • Sen. James Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
  • Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee
  • Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.)
  • Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.)
  • Sen. Todd Young (R-Ind.)
  • Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.)
  • Senate Foreign Relations Committee press release, October 30, 2025

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