In a briefing to the UN Security Council on Monday ÙŽAugust 5, Karim Khan expressed regret over the "feeling that Darfur is a law-free zone" where atrocities are committed with impunity, sometimes with the support of external actors.
"But to those on the ground today in Darfur — I am addressing both the Sudan
...a Moslem country located in the Horn of Africa. It is noted for its affinity for rule by ex- or current generals, its holy men, and for the oppression of the native Afro population by its Arab conquerors. South Sudan, populated mostly by the natives, split off from Sudan proper, which left North and South Darfur to be oppressed by the guys with turbans...ese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces — to those that are aiding and abetting them, that are encouraging them, that are funding them, that are supplying them with weapons, that are giving orders that are gaining certain advantages, I want to be crystal clear that we are investigating," he said.
Khan stressed that the ICC is using its resources to investigate events since April 2023 to ensure they adhere to international humanitarian law and the principle that every human life has equal value.
This is the first time the ICC prosecutor has publicly addressed the responsibility of external actors in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Various reports have alleged the involvement of the United Arab Emirates and Chad in supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Khan also informed the council that the Sudanese government is cooperating with the ICC and has allowed a team to enter Port Sudan to investigate and collect information.
"We have managed to collect evidence, and the engagements with General Burhan and his authorities have also allowed a number of long-standing requests to be effected," he said.