ICC Voices Alarming Findings of War Crimes in Sudan

The International Criminal Court reported reasonable grounds to believe that war crimes, including targeted sexual violence and abductions, are being committed in western Sudan amid an escalating conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has raised grave concerns about the ongoing conflict in Sudan, citing credible evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity being perpetrated in the region of Darfur. During a recent address to the United Nations Security Council, ICC Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan emphasized that targeted sexual violence against women and girls of specific ethnicities is particularly alarming.

The conflict, triggered by clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) that began in April 2023, has resulted in catastrophic civilian suffering, with an estimated 12 million people displaced. Ms. Khan acknowledged the challenges in adequately describing the suffering experienced by the people of Darfur, stating that the evidence collected, which includes over 7,000 items, highlights a disturbing "inescapable pattern of offending."

The ICC's investigation into the crimes in Darfur extends back two decades and was initially mandated by the UN Security Council, which allowed for the pursuit of accountability for war crimes and genocide in the region since July 2002. Following the resurgence of conflict, the ICC expanded its inquiry in 2023, focusing on testimonies from victims who sought refuge in neighboring Chad.

Khan warned that those responsible for these atrocities might currently feel a false sense of security, but reassured that the ICC is dedicated to pursuing justice for victims. Reports have surfaced of dire conditions in Darfur, including targeted attacks on hospitals and humanitarian missions, further undermining relief efforts. Additionally, civilians are reportedly facing severe shortages of food and water, which are being used as weapons of war.

The issue of rampant sexual violence and abductions by armed groups was underscored by Khan, who stated, "Rape and sexual violence are being weaponized." The ongoing siege by RSF forces has cut off aid access to the city of el-Fasher, instigating a cholera outbreak that poses an additional risk to the already vulnerable population.

The United Nations children's agency, UNICEF, has reported a sharp increase in malnutrition among children, with over 40,000 cases recorded between January and May 2025, marking more than double the figures from the previous year. UNICEF's Sheldon Yett emphasized the catastrophic impact of conflict on children, who are left starving and deprived of life-saving aid.

Since the outbreak of conflict, more than 150,000 individuals have died, while 12 million have been forced to abandon their homes. As the situation continues to deteriorate, Khan's warning rings clear: "We should not be under any illusion - things can still get worse." The ongoing crisis in Sudan remains a stark reminder of the urgent need for global awareness and intervention.