The United States is deeply concerned by allegations of mass rape by Sudanese military forces in Tabit, North Darfur. While we take note that the Government of Sudan recently allowed access to the United Nations/African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) to investigate these allegations, we regret the fact that initial access was denied, and after significant delays, access to potential witnesses and victims was only allowed under close observation of Sudanese security officials. Such behavior calls into question Sudan’s compliance with the Security Council’s call to “remove all obstacles to UNAMID’s full and proper discharge of its mandate including securing freedom of movement in conflict affected areas.”

The United States urges the Government of Sudan to fulfill its obligation to grant immediate, unhindered, and full access to UNAMID and other UN agencies. We encourage UNAMID to continue its investigations and protection of civilians in an environment free from intimidation. We remain focused on seeing an end to violence against civilians in Sudan and stress that victims must be provided medical treatment and psychosocial support. The United States calls on the Sudanese authorities to end the culture of impunity by allowing UNAMID and the National Human Rights Commission to conduct credible, thorough and timely investigations and to hold accountable all those found to be responsible.