Sudan's willingness to host bin Laden (1991-1996) had lasting consequences:

Immediate Effects:

1. International isolation and sanctions
2. US designated state sponsor of terrorism (1993)
3. US bombing of pharmaceutical factory (1998)
4. Economic collapse from sanctions
5. Destruction of medical infrastructure

Long-term Effects:

1. Sudan associated with terrorism in Western minds
2. Reduced international sympathy and engagement
3. Made it harder to attract investment
4. Created precedent for ignoring Sudan's humanitarian crises
5. Allowed Bashir regime to consolidate power while isolated

The Connection to Current Crisis: The international community's focus on terrorism enabled Bashir's atrocities:

1. Darfur genocide occurred while world focused on War on Terror
2. Sanctions hurt civilians but not elites
3. Western governments pragmatically worked with Bashir despite ICC indictment
4. Pattern established of ignoring Sudanese suffering