The United Nations Security Council has voted to extend the Sudan sanctions regime with a short technical rollover until October 9, 2026. This decision aims to provide additional time for discussions on how the UN sanctions regime can effectively respond to the current situation in Sudan.
Ambassador Kate Foster, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, stated that the United Kingdom voted in favour of the resolution. The UK welcomed the extra time for negotiations, emphasising the need to update the regime given the significant changes in the conflict since the measures were first established. The UK also thanked the United States for its efforts in steering negotiations.
The UK highlighted that the temporary extension preserves an important Council tool, but stressed that the coming weeks must be used constructively. All Council members are urged to engage seriously on the future of the sanctions regime, focusing on how it can best protect civilians and support peace. The UK has long supported strengthening the UN sanctions regime to ensure it remains effective, credible, and responsive.
The UK suggested that the sanctions regime should reflect the spread of fighting across Sudan and press parties to halt violence and protect civilians, including by constraining the flow of weapons. Millions in Sudan continue to face violence, displacement, hunger, and insecurity, with over 1,000 civilians reportedly killed in drone strikes between January and May 2026 alone.