The UAE has faced allegations of complicity in genocide in Sudan, particularly concerning its alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amid a devastating civil conflict. The strategic importance of Sudan and its resources is a key interest for the UAE, which seeks to counter Saudi influence and secure resources. Despite these allegations, the UAE denies involvement, and Sudan has filed a case at the ICJ against it.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been accused by Sudan of complicity in genocide, sparking scrutiny over its involvement in the ongoing civil war. Allegations include support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group currently in conflict with the Sudanese army. The UAE denies these accusations, asserting its neutrality in the situation.
Sudan is rich in natural resources, including minerals, agricultural land, and gold, making it strategically significant for the UAE. The country’s proximity to Libya, where the UAE supports rebel factions, and its access to maritime routes along the Red Sea further heighten its importance. Following the military coup in Sudan in 2021, a power struggle ensued between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemeti.
Andreas Krieg, a security specialist, notes that the UAE is primarily interested in political influence within Sudan, viewing it as a vital hub for resource investment. Researcher Hamid Khalafallah highlights the UAE’s ambitions to access natural resources, addressing its own deficiencies in arable land and minerals. A recent report by the development group Swissaid indicated that a significant portion of gold exported from Africa to the UAE in 2022 was illicitly obtained, as the UAE is a major buyer of Sudanese gold, a sector predominantly controlled by Daglo.
International relations professor Federico Donelli points out that the UAE’s interests extend beyond gold to influencing regional power dynamics, particularly to counteract Saudi Arabian influence and suppress political Islam. The UAE’s military ties with Sudan originate from cooperative efforts in Yemen, where Sudanese troops have previously supported the Saudi-led coalition.
Despite burgeoning ties between the UAE and the RSF, reports indicate that the relationship also features ideological elements. The RSF is known to oppose the Muslim Brotherhood, aligning with the UAE’s stance against Islamist movements. Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have faced allegations of war crimes, amid widespread violence that has resulted in numerous casualties and mass displacement.
Accusations from the United States in January label the RSF as responsible for genocide against ethnic groups, while lawmakers allege the UAE has violated commitments to cease military support to the RSF. Crucial support, including arms deliveries to the RSF through Chad, has been reported, though the UAE disputes these claims.
Sudan’s case against the UAE has been brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), claiming involvement in genocide linked to support for the RSF. The UAE has termed the filing a “publicity stunt” and is working to dismiss the suit. While ICJ rulings are legally binding, they lack enforcement power. As public perception shifts regarding the UAE’s influence in Africa, analysts suggest that reputational harm may arise, although the UAE’s political and financial standing may insulate it from severe consequences.
The UAE’s involvement in Sudan has drawn accusations of complicity in genocide, largely centered around its alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces. The strategic significance of Sudan’s vast resources attracts the UAE’s interest amid its ambitions to counter Saudi Arabian influence. With the ongoing conflict leading to severe humanitarian crises, the UAE’s relations with the RSF and its military support remain contentious, causing potential reputational risks while the ICJ case unfolds.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
