International court tells BBC of breakthrough in Sudan war crimes probe

What Happened

ICC Deputy Chief Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan told the BBC that the court has obtained 'concrete evidence' linking RSF leaders to war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the ongoing conflict in Darfur. She described the development as a 'breakthrough' in the investigation, citing 'linkage evidence' that connects specific commanders to atrocities. Khan spoke after visiting refugee camps in eastern Chad, where she heard testimony from survivors of mass killings in el-Fasher and el-Geneina. The UN says more than 6,000 people were killed in el-Fasher when the RSF seized the city in October 2024, and the violence has been described as bearing 'hallmarks of genocide.' The RSF, led by Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, has denied widespread killings, calling allegations exaggerated, though it acknowledges some violations and says its own investigation is ongoing. No timeline was given for charges.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The ICC's announcement marks the first tangible link between current RSF leadership and atrocity crimes in Darfur since the 2023 war began, reviving a long-stalled accountability process. It raises the prospect of arrest warrants against senior paramilitary commanders, potentially complicating RSF's political position and external support, while offering a measure of recognition to victims and reinforcing the court's role despite previous failures to detain Omar al-Bashir.

Watch For

Whether the ICC issues arrest warrants or charges against named RSF figures in the coming months; the RSF's formal response and any impact on its military operations or negotiations; potential Security Council referral follow-up; and reactions from Sudan's transitional actors, neighboring states, and external backers such as the UAE.