Sudan Cuts Diplomatic Ties with UAE Over Alleged Support for Paramilitary RSF
Sudan recalls ambassador as UAE denies supplying weapons to the RSF; humanitarian crisis deepens amid attacks on Port Sudan.
Sudan has announced it is severing diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), accusing the Gulf nation of backing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group involved in Sudan’s ongoing civil war. The decision was made public by Sudan’s Defence Minister, Yassin Ibrahim, in a televised address on Tuesday, citing violations of national sovereignty.
The Sudanese government claims the UAE has supported the RSF, which has been engaged in a violent conflict with the Sudanese army since April 2023. However, the UAE firmly denies these allegations, asserting it does not supply arms to the RSF. The dispute escalated after Sudan attempted to bring the matter before the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the UAE of complicity in acts of genocide in Darfur. The ICJ dismissed the case, citing a legal reservation by the UAE that limits the court's jurisdiction under the Genocide Convention.
The diplomatic fallout comes as aid organizations raise alarms about escalating attacks on vital infrastructure in Port Sudan, a critical hub for humanitarian operations. Since May 4, drone and missile strikes have hit key facilities including the city’s airport, seaport, fuel depots, and water and power plants. These attacks have disrupted flights, sparked fires, and endangered civilians, in clear violation of international humanitarian law, according to a coalition of NGOs.
Humanitarian groups warn that continued bombardments threaten to worsen the already dire situation for civilians, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Power outages are forcing reliance on generators amid fears of fuel shortages, while the damage to infrastructure is increasing the risk of disease, malnutrition, and displacement.
The United Nations has suspended humanitarian flights to Port Sudan in response to the attacks, severely impacting the delivery of aid. Aid groups have urged all parties to the conflict to uphold international law, avoid targeting civilian infrastructure, and ensure safe access for humanitarian assistance.
Efforts to mediate peace are also faltering. A UK-led initiative to create a diplomatic contact group has stalled, with divisions between key regional players – notably the UAE and Egypt – undermining progress toward a coordinated peace plan.
The diplomatic rupture and worsening humanitarian conditions signal a deepening crisis in Sudan, with little relief in sight for the millions affected by the conflict.
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