Sudan Warlord Accuses Egypt of Targeting RSF Troops

Lt-Gen Mohamed Hamdan Daglo of the RSF has accused Egypt of engaging in airstrikes against his forces, potentially drawing Cairo into the ongoing conflict in Sudan. This war, ongoing for 18 months, has claimed around 18,000 lives and displaced more than 11 million. Egypt has denied these allegations and continues to express a commitment to mediating peace and aiding civilians affected by the crisis. The humanitarian situation remains critical, with widespread hunger and disease across the nation.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has intensified as Lt-Gen Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemedti, the leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), accused Egypt of conducting airstrikes against RSF troops. This accusation potentially implicates Egypt in the ongoing violence that has persisted for 18 months, claiming approximately 18,000 lives and displacing over 11 million people since the fighting began in April 2023. Historically, the RSF has faced allegations from the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) regarding support from the United Arab Emirates, yet recent developments suggest a shift in accusations toward Egypt. In a recorded speech, Hemedti asserted that Cairo has been backing the Sudanese army, alleging that they provide training and drone support, which he claims has helped the army make significant advancements. “We have been silent for a long time and hoped they would awaken, but they are persistent in the battle,” he stated, shedding light on the tensions between the factions. In response, Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs dismissed these allegations as unfounded, emphasizing the nation’s commitment to ending the conflict and assisting affected civilians. The Egyptian government’s efforts to mediate the crisis and support humanitarian initiatives have been consistent, particularly given Egypt’s historical ties with the Sudanese military. Before the conflict escalated, Egyptian forces were actively stationed in Sudan. However, following the outbreak of hostilities, these troops were briefly detained by RSF forces until negotiations facilitated their release. Additionally, Egypt’s ongoing diplomatic endeavors, including President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s recent visit to Eritrea to discuss regional stability, reflect its intention to support peace efforts. Hemedti’s recent speech has elicited various responses both domestically and internationally, with Sudan’s Finance Minister Jibrili Ibrahim condemning it as an indication of defeat, emphasizing the devastating humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict. This war has led to rampant widespread hunger, disease outbreaks, and the collapse of essential services across Sudan, with hospitals reporting critical shortages of medical supplies. Despite international interventions aiming to provide humanitarian relief, accessibility to affected regions remains dangerously limited due to ongoing violence. Observers express concern over the international community’s ability to effectively mediate and establish a ceasefire, with hopes resting on potential diplomatic solutions.

The situation in Sudan has rapidly deteriorated since the conflict erupted in April 2023 between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF). Many accuse various international actors, such as the United Arab Emirates and Egypt, of involvement in the conflict. The humanitarian crisis stems from extensive displacement, fatalities, and a breakdown of infrastructure, leading to severe health and food crises. The international community, including the United Nations, has attempted to facilitate peace talks and humanitarian access, yet progress remains stymied by continued violence.

In summary, accusations made by RSF leader Hemedti against Egypt add a new layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has already resulted in tremendous loss of life and humanitarian suffering. Despite Egypt’s denial of these claims and its efforts to mediate peace, the situation remains dire, with the potential for further escalation. The pressing needs for humanitarian assistance and effective conflict resolution highlight the urgent requirement for cohesive international diplomatic efforts to establish stability in Sudan.

Original Source: www.theeastafrican.co.ke