The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has sanctioned Mirghani Idris Suleiman, the Director General of Sudan's Defense Industries System (DIS), under Executive Order 14098. Suleiman is accused of leading efforts by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to procure weapons amid their ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). OFAC previously designated DIS on June 1, 2023, for actions threatening Sudan's peace and stability.
The SAF has reportedly prioritized acquiring weapons from Iran and a port-for-weapons deal with Russia, escalating the conflict rather than seeking peaceful negotiations. This support has allegedly emboldened the SAF to continue fighting.
Bradley T. Smith, Acting Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, stated, "Today’s action underscores the essential role that key individuals like Mirghani Idris Suleiman have played in procuring weapons, perpetuating violence, and prolonging the fighting in Sudan." He emphasized that the United States aims to disrupt both sides' ability to obtain weapons and financing that hinder peace.
Mirghani Idris Suleiman began his career in SAF's officer corps alongside Commander Burhan and later served in Sudan’s intelligence service before leading DIS. As head of DIS, he has been involved in multiple official delegations to potential suppliers.
The sanctions block all property and interests belonging to designated persons within U.S. jurisdiction. Entities owned by these individuals are also blocked unless authorized by OFAC. Transactions involving blocked persons are generally prohibited for U.S. persons or those transiting through the United States.
Financial institutions engaging with sanctioned entities may face penalties or enforcement actions. The sanctions aim not just to punish but to encourage positive behavioral changes. For more information on removal from an OFAC list, refer to OFAC’s Frequently Asked Question 897.
Further details on today's designations can be accessed through provided links.
