Sens. Scott, Risch, Colleagues Issue Statement on Violence in Sudan

WASHINGTON - In a joint statement this week, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) joined Sens. Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), chairman and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, in condemning the ongoing civil war in Sudan and the genocide occurring in Darfur, calling for decisive U.S. action following the Rapid Support Forces' (RSF) latest assault on civilians in El-Fasher. The lawmakers urged the administration to consider designating the RSF as a Foreign Terrorist Organization or Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization, citing the group's continued campaign of ethnic cleansing, mass atrocities, and destabilization across the region.

"We are horrified by the ongoing civil war in Sudan, and the genocide in Darfur perpetuated by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias. The RSF's long-predicted ethnically targeted assault on the civilian population of El-Fasher makes clear that the United States must consider the designation of the RSF as a potential Foreign Terrorist Organization or Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization, while establishing clear authorizations and mechanisms for the continued delivery of humanitarian aid.

"Now in its third year, Sudan's civil war has devastated the country, shattered Sudanese society, and destabilized the region. Both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have committed atrocities against civilians and pursued a zero-sum war at any cost. Foreign backers of the RSF and SAF-including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Russia, Iran, China and governments in the immediate region-have fueled and profited from the conflict and legitimized the monsters destroying Sudan.

"This war poses grave risk to the United States. Sudan's location on the Red Sea is vital for global trade and energy flows. The country's history as a haven for terrorists like Osama Bin Laden, its facilitation of vast illicit flow of arms and gold, and the movement of fighters and civilians across its borders threaten U.S. national security and economic stability. Achieving a sustainable ceasefire, ensuring unhindered humanitarian access, and securing safe corridors for civilians across Sudan is paramount. The warring parties and their foreign backers must work with the United States and its partners to end this catastrophic war immediately.

"The U.S.-led 'Quad' diplomacy (with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE) is an important step that requires all parties to engage in good faith negotiations. Ensuring meaningful participation by Sudanese civilians will strengthen future efforts and give legitimacy to any lasting peace."

U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.) also joined in issuing the statement.

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