Sudanese security forces arrested demonstrators and pro-democracy activists in Khartoum following a military coup. Among the arrested were leaders from the Umma Party and the Sudanese Professionals’ Association. The African Union suspended Sudan's participation, and the World Bank paused financial aid to pressure the military leaders. Businesses closed and strikes were called in support of the ousted government. General Abdel-Fattah Burhan justified the coup to prevent civil war and promised a civilian government after elections in July 2023. Deposed Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok was placed under house arrest. The UN and Western countries, including the US, have demanded the release of detained civilians and condemned the coup. The US also suspended $700 million in aid. Despite the crackdown, protests and calls for civil disobedience continue.