As if America's foreign policy cup isn't already brimming with worries about Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan and, of course, Iraq, now another hotspot deserves considered attention from President Bush and his would-be successors: Sudan.
The joint United Nations/African Union force trying to keep peace in that nation's Darfur region is under severe duress. Last week, a group of peacekeepers was hit by a well-coordinated ambush. About 200 gunmen on horseback and in vehicles surprised the group as it was heading back to camp. Several were reported dead.
Besides the obvious humanitarian implications, if peacekeepers fail it could further embolden a troublesome government that already feels it can ignore Western concerns, thanks in no small part to money - and, allegedly, arms - Sudan receives from China in exchange for oil. It also would ramp up Sudan's reputation as a safe haven for terrorists. Few recall that Sudan once harbored Osama bin Laden before he bailed for Afghanistan; reportedly terror groups from Middle Eastern countries are finding a home in Sudan and other African nations.
Now, in an unprecedented move, the International Criminal Court has charged Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir with genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. That indictment should provide leverage to stop the murder in Darfur. America, its allies, and especially China, now preparing to take the Olympic stage, should use it.
