The United States has sanctioned the leader of the Sudanese Armed Forces, accusing Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan of destabilizing the war-torn Northeast African nation and undermining peace efforts.

"The Sudanese government rejects and condemns the US Treasury Department's sanctions against Sovereignty Council Chair and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan,” the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Sudan's army chief has ordered an investigation into allegations that his troops carried out widespread atrocities after recapturing the capital of Gezira state from their paramilitary rivals. Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's move comes after widespread concern that civilians - including foreign nationals - were killed after the seizure of Wad Madani.