US Officials Evacuate Embassy Amid Sudanese Violence

The situation in Sudan has deteriorated significantly in recent days as fighting between warring factions broke out on April 15. Since then, more than 400 people have died and injuries are approaching 3,600.

Officials in the U.S. have responded to the situation by evacuating all American personnel from the embassy in the capital city of Khartoum.

One source indicated that the mission was conducted alongside the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group, which is engaging in the ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army.

The U.S. evacuation was just one of several operations by governments around the world to remove their citizens from the increasingly dangerous region. According to recent updates, it has become difficult, if not impossible, for citizens of Sudan as well as foreigners in the country to leave since the Khartoum airport has been shut down due to the violence.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin attempted to reassure the public that there were Americans available near the Sudanese border to offer assistance to anyone unable to leave the country and additional personnel were stationed and ready to respond but their services were not deemed necessary at that time.

One estimate suggests that as many as 16,000 Americans could be trapped in Sudan.

At least one of those killed in Sudan was an American, according to a report. The unidentified victim was not involved with the U.S. embassy in Khartoum.

According to the Department of State: “We can confirm the death of one U.S. citizen in Sudan. We are in touch with the family and offer our deepest condolences to them on their loss. Out of respect for the family during this difficult time, we have nothing further to add.”

The White House released a statement calling for an immediate halt to the “tragic violence” taking place in Sudan.

“It’s unconscionable, and it must stop,” the statement attributed to President Joe Biden added. “The belligerent parties must implement an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, allow unhindered humanitarian access, and respect the will of the people of Sudan.”

Biden added that he was “proud of the extraordinary commitment” exhibited by embassy staff “who performed their duties with courage and professionalism and embodied America’s friendship and connection with the people of Sudan.”