U.S. lawmakers, Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Sara Jacobs, assert that the UAE is still providing arms to Sudan’s RSF, despite previously given assurances to the Biden administration. They plan to block future arms sales, advocating for peace and accountability as the conflict in Sudan intensifies and humanitarian crises worsen.
Two U.S. lawmakers have asserted that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has continued to supply arms to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), contradicting prior assurances. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Sara Jacobs highlighted that recent briefings indicated violations of commitments made to the Biden administration concerning military aid to the RSF, which is accused of committing genocide in Sudan.
In their previous agreement to proceed with a $1.2 billion arms deal with the UAE, assurances were given that no weapons were being transferred to the RSF. Van Hollen emphasized, “It is imperative that the United States not provide weapons to countries that are in turn providing military support to the RSF and complicit in its genocidal actions.”
The lawmakers expressed their intentions to block future arms sales to the UAE, especially under the current administration following Trump’s agreements with the Gulf nation. Jacobs stated, “I will try to block any future offensive arms sale to the UAE in a push for peace, aid, justice and accountability for the people of Sudan.”
It was noted that during the last days of Biden’s presidency, Secretary of State Antony Blinken characterized the RSF’s actions in Darfur as genocidal. The RSF has been implicated in systematic abuses, including violence against non-Arab populations. Despite international scrutiny, the UAE has denied allegations of arming the RSF, even as U.N. experts label the claims credible.
The RSF’s connections to the UAE reportedly stem from their collaboration in Yemen against Huthi insurgents. Moreover, other nations, such as Egypt, Turkey, Iran, and Russia, have been accused of providing support to factions in Sudan’s ongoing conflict, which has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. Although sanctions were imposed on both warring generals, U.S. officials indicate a prevailing belief among both sides that military victory is still achievable as the conflict continues.
The allegations surrounding the UAE’s involvement in arming Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces arise amidst a backdrop of serious accusations of genocide and systematic human rights abuses in Sudan. The RSF’s historical context involves its origins tied to previous paramilitary groups responsible for atrocities in Darfur. The situation is further complicated by regional dynamics, including the involvement of various powers in the conflict and the humanitarian fallout affecting civilians in Sudan.
In conclusion, U.S. lawmakers are standing firm against what they perceive as a breach of commitments by the UAE concerning arms supplies to the RSF. Not only are they committed to halting any further military transactions with the UAE, but they are also demanding accountability and justice for the victims of the atrocities in Sudan. The persistence of armed support for the RSF underlines the complexities of geopolitical interests and humanitarian concerns in the region.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
