ICC Details Darfur War Crimes, Urges Action

The International Criminal Court (ICC) presented to the UN Security Council its finding that there are reasonable grounds to believe war crimes and crimes against humanity are being committed in Sudan's Darfur region during the ongoing civil war between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). ICC Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan described an 'intolerable' humanitarian crisis, including famine, widespread deprivation, and targeted attacks on hospitals and aid convoys. The ICC noted systematic use of rape and sexual violence against specific ethnic groups, with gender-based crimes given special investigative priority. The RSF and allied militias have been accused of besieging cities like El Fasher, attacking camps for displaced persons, and resorting to abductions for ransom and forced recruitment. These conclusions are based on extensive evidence, including thousands of documents and testimonies from victims, especially refugees who fled to Chad. The ICC warned that the situation could deteriorate further and called for urgent international attention and accountability.