RSF officials accused of atrocities met with Israeli officials during Sudan civil war - report

Senior figures from Sudan's Rapid Support Forces, facing accusations of war crimes and civilian atrocities in the ongoing civil conflict, kept hidden ties with Israel and dispatched groups to Tel Aviv while fighting raged, according to a weekend report from French investigative source Africa Intelligence.

The account states two RSF-linked delegations made undisclosed trips to Tel Aviv, one in May 2025 and another in February 2026.

Africa Intelligence noted that delegation members held discussions with Africa Division personnel from Israel's Foreign Ministry along with Israeli intelligence staff.

The outlet described these exchanges as part of an ongoing security and intelligence partnership that predated the start of Sudan's civil war in April 2023.

The first group reportedly included Abdel Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, deputy to RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, plus their brother Algoney Hamdan Dagalo. The pair returned to Israel in February 2026, joined on that occasion by the group's legal adviser.

Africa Intelligence added that links between Hemedti associates and Israeli officials stretch back years and involved security and intelligence cooperation. The report also referenced transfers of surveillance technologies and gear to individuals connected with the RSF.

These claims come from the investigative outlet and do not represent official confirmation of Israeli assistance to the rebel forces during the war.

RSF accused of genocidal actions, mass rape in Darfur

The report gained extra notice due to grave charges against the Rapid Support Forces. A UN investigative panel concluded in July that RSF personnel carried out mass killings, rape, abductions and intentional starvation during the seizure of El Fasher in Darfur, actions that could qualify as genocide.

The RSF denied the claims. The group has also faced prior reports of connections to the United Arab Emirates.

Abdel Rahim Dagalo remains under international sanctions. European records portray him as central to RSF military operations and responsible for steps that endanger peace and stability in Darfur, including violence and rights abuses.