President Joe Biden issued an executive order authorizing sanctions against Sudan, declaring that the fighting must stop.

The violence, according to Mr. Biden, is a tragedy and a betrayal of the Sudanese people.

The US president said the violence in Sudan was an “unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security and foreign policy of the United States”.

“The Sudanese people suffered thirty years under an authoritarian regime — but they never gave up on their commitment to democracy or their hope for a better future. Their dedication brought down a dictator, only to endure a military takeover in October 2021, and now more violence among factions fighting for control,” Biden said in a written statement announcing the new sanctions authorities.

The sanctions target any person involved in actions or policies that threaten peace, security, or stability. Also, actions undermining, delaying, or impeding, the formation or operation of a civilian transitional government.

Meanwhile, The World Food Programme has estimated that more than $13m worth of food aid destined for Sudan has been stolen since fighting broke out in April.

The WFP said looting in the country was rampant.

Also, the UN children’s agency, Unicef, warned that the situation in Sudan is taking catastrophic trends, with many young people increasingly caught in the crossfire.

Full statement from President Joe Biden on the Conflict in Sudan

“The violence taking place in Sudan is a tragedy—and it is a betrayal of the Sudanese people’s clear demand for civilian government and a transition to democracy. I join the peace-loving people of Sudan and leaders around the world in calling for a durable ceasefire between the belligerent parties. This violence, which has already stolen the lives of hundreds of civilians and began during the holy month of Ramadan, is unconscionable. It must end.

“Since the earliest moments of this conflict, the United States has facilitated the safe departure of thousands of people – Americans and others – by land, sea, and air and conducted intensive negotiations to de-escalate violence. Our diplomatic efforts to urge all parties to end the military conflict and allow unhindered humanitarian access continue, as do our efforts to assist those remaining Americans, including by providing them information on exit options. The United States is already responding to this unfolding humanitarian crisis and stands ready to support enhanced humanitarian assistance when conditions allow.

“The United States stands with the people of Sudan—and we are acting to support their commitment to a future of peace and opportunity. Today, I issued a new Executive Order that expands U.S. authorities to respond to the violence that began on April 15 with sanctions that hold individuals responsible for threatening the peace, security, and stability of Sudan; undermining Sudan’s democratic transition; using violence against civilians; or committing serious human rights abuses.

“The Sudanese people suffered thirty years under an authoritarian regime—but they never gave up on their commitment to democracy or their hope for a better future. Their dedication brought down a dictator, only to endure a military takeover in October 2021, and now more violence among factions fighting for control.”