RSF vows to protect civilians, US envoy cautious

August 31, 2024 (Khartoum) – The head of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Saturday ordered his troops to protect civilians and ensure the delivery of aid, a move that the US special envoy to Sudan was cautiously optimistic about given the paramilitary group’s history of alleged abuses.

The RSF has been fighting the Sudanese army since April 2023, sparking a major humanitarian crisis. The paramilitary group faces accusations of widespread atrocities, including the occupation of hospitals and other civilian infrastructure.

According to a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, nicknamed Hemetti, issued an “executive directive” to all troops, emphasizing the commitment to protect civilians and promote humanitarian aid.

Hemeti called on his forces to respect international humanitarian law and warned that violators would be held accountable. The statement said the directive was aimed at fulfilling the commitments made by the Rapid Security Forces during talks in Jeddah and Manama on civilian protection and aid access.

Last week, conflict mediators the United States and Saudi Arabia obtained assurances from Sudanese troops and rapid security forces to allow aid deliveries to Darfur through two main crossing points.

The U.S. envoy welcomed the Rapid Rescue Force directive but stressed that action must be taken. “The Rapid Rescue Force has a long and well-documented history of committing horrific atrocities,” the envoy said. “While today’s command directive … is a first, the real test will be whether we will see changes in behavior and accountability.”

The Special Envoy made these remarks as the conflict in Sudan continues, causing a serious humanitarian crisis. The international community continues to call on all parties to respect international humanitarian law and allow aid organizations unhindered access to Sudan.

Reactions to the new directive from the RSF have been mixed, with some observers expressing hope that it will reduce violence against civilians. Others, however, remain skeptical, citing the RSF’s past actions and the challenges of enforcing such directives in a chaotic conflict zone.