The Sudanese Army and the Use of Chemical Weapons: Recent War Violations and Humanitarian Impact

30th January 2025

3 minutes read

Amid the ongoing war in Sudan for several years, the military situation has escalated significantly in recent times, with the Sudanese army deploying lethal weapons, including chemical weapons. These weapons have been used in various battles and conflicts against areas controlled by opposition groups, with devastating effects on civilians and local communities.

Chemical Weapons

Chemical weapons are toxic substances used to destroy the enemy or weaken their combat capabilities. They include lethal gases such as sarin, mustard gas, and tabun gas, as well as chemical compounds that cause severe tissue damage and poisoning. The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) prohibits the use of such weapons, yet numerous reports indicate their deployment in armed conflicts in Sudan, raising serious concerns about compliance with international law.

The Army’s Use of Chemical Weapons in the Recent War

During the most recent conflict in Sudan, the Sudanese army used chemical weapons in several areas of intense fighting, particularly in Darfur, South Kordofan, and Blue Nile. These attacks targeted locations where rebel forces and opposition groups were believed to be stationed, but some also struck densely populated civilian areas.

Reports on the Attacks

In Darfur: In 2023, international and human rights reports confirmed the Sudanese army‘s use of toxic gases against civilians and rebels. One of the most documented incidents occurred in May 2023 in the city of Kass, where eyewitnesses reported that Sudanese air forces bombed a populated area, causing symptoms consistent with chemical gas exposure. The attack resulted in approximately 200 injuries and 40 fatalities due to gas poisoning.
In South Kordofan: In September 2023, another chemical attack was documented in the city of Kadugli, where Sudanese forces targeted rebel-held areas. The attack left hundreds injured, many suffering from severe respiratory issues and skin burns. Reports from organizations such as Human Rights Watch confirmed the use of chemical substances in this assault.
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Victims and Impact

Due to restricted access to affected regions, obtaining precise figures is challenging. However, international reports indicate significant casualties.

Injuries: According to Amnesty International, approximately 500 cases of chemical poisoning were recorded between 2023 and 2024. Most victims were civilians experiencing breathing difficulties, severe burns, and internal injuries from chemical exposure.
Fatalities: Reports suggest that at least 100 people died due to the toxic effects of these attacks. However, this figure only accounts for documented cases, and the actual number is likely higher due to limited access to medical care.

Evidence of Chemical Weapons Use

Several pieces of evidence confirm the Sudanese army’s use of chemical weapons:

Scientific Testing: International experts analyzed soil and air samples from affected areas in Darfur and South Kordofan, detecting traces of toxic substances, including sarin gas.
Eyewitness Accounts: Survivors described symptoms consistent with chemical poisoning, such as eye irritation and breathing difficulties.

International Reactions

The attacks have drawn widespread condemnation from the international community, including the United Nations and human rights organizations. However, the Sudanese government denies these allegations, asserting that military operations target only armed groups threatening national stability.

Despite calls for an independent investigation, political and logistical barriers have hindered meaningful results. Without strong international pressure, these violations may persist.

The use of chemical weapons by the Sudanese army is a blatant violation of international treaties and humanitarian laws. Immediate international action is needed to conduct independent investigations and hold those responsible for these crimes against humanity accountable.