Cairo Strengthens Support for Sudan amidst RSF Conflict and National Security Concerns

Cairo is increasing its support for the Sudanese government following the release of nine Egyptian nationals from RSF captivity. The operation involved close cooperation between Egyptian and Sudanese military forces. Egypt is concurrently engaging regional and Gulf powers to enhance political unity in Sudan and prevent humanitarian deterioration amid the ongoing conflict.

Cairo is bolstering its support for the Sudanese government amid ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This effort follows a successful operation in which the Sudanese army and Egyptian military collaborated to secure the release of nine Egyptian nationals who had been detained by the RSF. The release was reported on Thursday by Egyptian media, highlighting the careful coordination between Egyptian and Sudanese authorities.

The individuals freed were primarily engaged in the household goods trade while residing in Khartoum. According to the Daily News Egypt, Egyptian sources indicated that these nationals lived in the capital and were held captive for several months before their return was facilitated by the Egyptian government under the directive of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Al-Qahera News detailed that the captives were moved from conflict zones in central Khartoum to Port Sudan to ensure their safety.

The violence in Sudan escalated following the outbreak of hostilities between the Sudanese army and the RSF in April 2023. As the RSF gained control over parts of Khartoum, they seized properties belonging to both Sudanese citizens and foreign residents. Many Egyptian traders who opted to stay in Sudan for economic reasons were ultimately detained by RSF fighters.

Emad Moawad, one of the freed captives, detailed his experience to Reuters, claiming the RSF had wrongfully accused them of espionage. He recounted, “Sixty-five days later, the RSF raided our house and held us captive for over 19 months.”

Following the release, reports surfaced indicating that Egypt is mobilizing support from Arab and Gulf nations for the Sudanese government. On Sunday, Cairo rejected any initiatives aimed at establishing a parallel government in Sudan, emphasizing the need to preserve the country’s unity and sovereignty. Egyptian officials are actively engaging with various regional countries to unify Sudanese political factions and address the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the conflict.

Egypt is maintaining direct communication with neighboring countries, such as Chad and South Sudan, and engaging with Gulf allies like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to strengthen the Sudanese government’s position. Egyptian officials regard the stability of Sudan as crucial to their national security and are in ongoing discussions with the African Union and the United Nations to seek political resolutions to the crisis while avoiding further instability in the region.

Concerns are rising regarding Sudan’s fragmented political landscape, which could lead to rival factions claiming control over different areas, thus increasing the risk of mass displacement and further destabilization of the Nile Basin area. In contrast, the Kenyan government has faced backlash for appearing to endorse the RSF, having hosted rebel leaders in February to enact a transitional constitution, which threatens to create a parallel governing structure within Sudan.

The armed forces’ actions have drawn severe global criticism for alleged crimes against humanity during the protracted conflict, which has triggered a humanitarian crisis marked by widespread hunger and displacement. Recently, the International Court of Justice revealed that Sudan has lodged a case against the UAE, alleging complicity in genocide due to its support for the RSF.

In summary, Egypt’s bolstering of support for the Sudanese government comes in response to the release of its nationals held captive by the RSF. This situation underscores concerns regarding Sudan’s unity and stability amid escalating violence. By fostering collaborative efforts with regional and Gulf nations, Egypt aims to facilitate political resolution and humanitarian relief while addressing fears of a broader regional crisis due to Sudan’s potential fragmentation.

Original Source: www.newarab.com