U.S. Aims to Pressure UAE to Halt Arms Support for RSF Amid Sudan Crisis

American officials plan to pressure the UAE to stop supplying weapons to the RSF in light of genocide allegations during the civil war in Sudan. President Burhan, speaking at the UN, appealed for international support and labeled the RSF a terrorist group, amid a worsening humanitarian crisis with millions displaced and hungry. Despite negotiations for peace, the conflict persists, influenced heavily by the UAE’s military support.

In a recent development, American officials have indicated their intention to exert pressure on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to cease its support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. This follows accusations against the RSF of committing genocide amid the ongoing civil conflict that erupted in April 2023. During a press conference on September 26, 2023, in New York City, President Burhan expressed optimism regarding U.S. promises to influence the UAE’s actions concerning arms provisions to the RSF. At the UN General Assembly, Burhan sought international support against the RSF, questioning why no decisive measures have been taken against those supporting the group. He characterized the RSF as a terrorist organization, stating, “The RSF should be called out for what they are.” The conflict has rapidly escalated into a severe humanitarian crisis, with approximately 26 million individuals experiencing acute hunger and over 10 million displaced since the onset of hostilities. Humanitarian access remains severely restricted, hampered by both the conflict and bureaucratic obstacles imposed by involved parties. Refugee crises are spilling into neighboring countries, particularly affecting Chad, Uganda, and Libya, as people flee the violence. Women and girls are disproportionately impacted, facing significant barriers to healthcare. Despite calls for negotiation from Burhan, he insists that discussions must occur without preconditions. There are allegations that the RSF receives military support from the UAE, including weapons and logistics, crucial for their sustained operations against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The international community’s response has been mixed, with U.S. President Joe Biden and UN Secretary-General António Guterres urging an end to external military support for both warring factions. Meanwhile, the UAE continues to deny involvement, complicating the geopolitical landscape.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan erupted in April 2023, leading to catastrophic humanitarian consequences. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, is accused of brutal tactics, including genocide. American officials, recognizing the UAE’s significant role in providing weapons and support to the RSF, are advocating for a cessation of such backing in an effort to stabilize the situation and aid the humanitarian crisis. This conflict has drawn international attention, as nations grapple with the implications of their foreign policies amid escalating violence and widespread suffering within Sudan.

The situation in Sudan remains critical, as both the SAF and RSF continue their violent conflict without agreement for a ceasefire. International calls for a halt to arms supplies, particularly from the UAE to the RSF, reflect a growing urgency to address the humanitarian disaster unfolding in the region. As U.S. officials work to leverage diplomatic influence over the UAE, the need for cohesive and immediate action from the global community is paramount to mitigate the crisis and support those affected by the violence.

Original Source: www.passblue.com