The United States Department of State announced on March 16 that it has formally designated the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO).
The United States cited the group’s “unrestrained violence against civilians” as an effort to undermine peace and advance its violent Islamist ideology. Officials further alleged that many Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood fighters receive training and support from Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), resulting in mass civilian executions.
“The Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood’s al-Baraa Bin Malik Brigade was designated pursuant to E.O. 14098 in September 2025 for its role in Sudan’s brutal war,” the State Department statement read.
This designation follows similar US actions in January targeting several other Muslim Brotherhood branches, including its historical base in Egypt.
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has denied that Brotherhood members are embedded in the government, despite claims that the group plays a role within the army. General al-Burhan maintains a complex relationship with Islamist factions, relying on some for political support.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates, which has been accused of arming the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) engaged in conflict with the SAF since April 2023 has denied these allegations. The RSF welcomed Washington’s designation, stating it “reflects growing awareness of the scale of suffering the Sudanese people have endured,” according to AFP.
The RSF has been accused of mass atrocities, including acts of genocide against black Sudanese communities. UN investigations and US reports allege systematic killings and sexual violence perpetrated by the RSF, although the group’s backers, including the UAE, have repeatedly denied providing material support.
Founded in 1928 by Egyptian scholar Hassan al-Banna, the Muslim Brotherhood has developed offshoots and branches across the Middle East, including political parties and social organizations. While the group claims commitment to peaceful political engagement, the US designation highlights concerns over its violent factions in Sudan.
Analysts say the FTO designation could reshape Sudan’s geopolitical landscape, increasing scrutiny of the SAF, influencing sanctions considerations, and affecting international humanitarian operations. Diplomats are monitoring how this move might impact future engagement and the coordination of aid in a country already facing prolonged conflict.
