Extradite suspects in attempt on Egyptian president's life or face diplomatic sanctions.

• Position: Sudan

Sudan must take immediate action to extradite to Ethiopia three suspects wanted in connection with a 26 June 1995 assassination attempt on the life of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, or face diplomatic sanctions, according to the Security Council on 26 April.

The Council further demanded that Sudan desist "from assisting, supporting and facilitating terrorist activities and from giving shelter and sanctuary to terrorist elements", and begin henceforth acting in its relations with its neighbours and others in full conformity with the Charters of the UN and of the Organization of African Unity (OAU).

In adopting resolution 1054 (1996) by a vote of 13 to none, with 2 abstentions (China, Russian Federation), the Council was acting under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. It did so after determining that Sudan's non-compliance with demands stated originally in resolution 1044 (1996) of 31 January constituted "a threat to international peace and security".

If Sudan did not comply by one minute after midnight Eastern Standard Time on 10 May, States would be required to significantly reduce the number and level of staff at Sudanese diplomatic missions and consular posts, and restrict or control the movement within their territories of remaining staff. In addition, entry into or transit through their territories of officials and members of the Sudanese Government and armed forces would be restricted. Sanctions would remain in effect until the Council determined that Sudan had complied with its demands.

In support of its action, the Council called for all States to act in strict conformity with those measures, despite any possible rights or obligations under prior international agreements or contracts. It also called on international and regional organizations not to convene any conferences in Sudan.

States are due to report back within 60 days from the resolution's adoption on measures taken by them to fulfil the provisions of the resolution. Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali was to report within 60 days of the 10 May deadline on the resolution's implementation. At that time, the Council would re-examine whether Sudan had complied with its demands and, if not, determine what further measures it might adopt.

Disavowal

Addressing the Council, Sudan called the assertion that it had not complied with resolution 1044 (1996) "amazing", noting that it had provided details of its efforts to apprehend the suspects (S/1996/197). The demand that Sudan...