Leaked intelligence sheds new light on Sudan military’s alleged chlorine weapons programme

Nairobi, Kenya, September 7 - Fresh intelligence documents have exposed a potential chlorine weapons programme operated by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) under General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, according to The New York Times and The Washington Post. The investigations, based on over 150 leaked records, reveal an alleged effort initiated in 2024 to develop and deploy chlorine-based weapons in the fight for Khartoum.

The documents feature weapons blueprints, testing accounts, and communications aimed at concealing the programme from US authorities. The allegations are significant because chlorine, commonly used for civilian purposes like water purification, can cause severe harm when released in large amounts. The programme allegedly began under Brigadier General Tariq Hussein's direction in July 2024, with prototype designs for a 33-pound chlorine gas warhead.

The investigation also raised questions about the chlorine supply chain, identifying possible routes through Egypt and water-treatment facilities, including Al-Manara in Khartoum. While UNICEF supplied chlorine to the Khartoum State Water Corporation for civilian use between 2023 and 2025, the leaked material does not confirm any diversion of this aid for military purposes.

The revelations come after the US imposed sanctions on Sudan in May 2025 for alleged use of chemical weapons in 2024. Sudan has consistently denied these accusations, stating compliance with the Chemical Weapons Convention. The latest reports are expected to intensify scrutiny of the SAF leadership and call for an independent investigation.

Chlorine's danger lies in its potential to cause severe injury or death when released at high concentrations, despite its useful civilian applications.