Newswires are reporting that the International Criminal Court just issued its arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on charges of crimes against humanity (five counts) and war crimes (two counts).
The panel of judges ruled that there was insufficient evidence for a charge of genocide. However, the case could be amended at a later point if additional evidence is gathered.
The BBC reports that large pro-Bashir demonstrations are expected in Khartoum. The Sudanese military has vowed to “firmly deal” with ICC supporters, with intelligence chief Salah Gosh promising to "sever the limbs of those who attempt to stick their hands in" to enforce a warrant. Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) rebels say they plan to respond militarily to any violent reaction from Khartoum. Shortly before the announcement, Doctors Without Borders (MSF), was ordered by Khartoum to pull out of the country.
We’ll be sure to keep you posted today and throughout the week about reactions from Sudan. In the meantime, check out the International Crisis Group’s statement on the potential implications of the warrant.