The UAE’s Complex Role in the Conflict in Sudan

The United Arab Emirates faces accusations from Sudan of complicity in genocide due to alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The UAE denies these allegations while pursuing political and economic interests in Sudan, which is rich in natural resources. The ongoing conflict has attracted international scrutiny, with potential reputational damage for the UAE, although its influence may shield it from serious repercussions.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has come under scrutiny following Sudan’s accusation of its complicity in genocide, presented at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This allegation highlights the UAE’s alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amidst a civil war that has been ongoing for nearly two years, a claim the UAE vehemently denies.

Sudan possesses vast natural resources, including minerals, gas, and is Africa’s third-largest gold producer. Its strategic location alongside Libya and the Red Sea makes it a significant maritime route for oil shipping. The power dynamics shifted when Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, seized power alongside RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemeti. The ensuing conflict between the two generals has drawn in external powers, including the UAE, Egypt, and Turkey.

Andreas Krieg, a Middle East security expert at King’s College London, suggested that the UAE’s primary interest lies in exerting political influence within Sudan. Emirati firms view Sudan as a promising market for investment, particularly in resources and agricultural land that the UAE lacks. Researcher Hamid Khalafallah noted that the UAE’s history includes working with paramilitary groups across Africa to harness resources.

A report by Swissaid estimated that 66.5% of gold exported from Africa to the UAE in 2022 was smuggled. The UAE remains the leading buyer of Sudan’s gold, mostly sourced from Daglo’s operations. However, Professor Federico Donelli warned against oversimplifying the UAE’s motives, suggesting they also aim to counter Saudi influence and mitigate the spread of political Islam, which poses a security threat to the UAE.

The relationship between the UAE and Sudan’s military has been influenced by their collaborative efforts in Yemen, where Sudan previously supported the Saudi-led coalition. Despite the longstanding partnership, rifts between Saudi Arabia and the UAE have surfaced, particularly regarding support for Daglo, which the UAE denies.

The RSF’s ideological stance against groups like the Muslim Brotherhood differentiates it from the Sudanese army, which retains connections to the prior Islamist regime. Both factions have been accused of war crimes as conflict persists, displacing over 12 million individuals and resulting in tens of thousands of fatalities. The U.S. has labeled the RSF’s actions as genocide, highlighting mass killings and sexual violence.

Concerns were raised when U.S. lawmakers claimed the UAE breached its commitments not to furnish military aid to the RSF. According to analysts, the RSF has depended significantly on UAE support, including arms deliveries, although the UAE refutes such allegations.

Sudan’s referral of the case against the UAE to the ICJ claims the UAE is complicit in genocide through its support for the RSF. The UAE has dismissed this case as mere “publicity stunt” and aims to have it dismissed. Despite the ICJ’s rulings being binding, they lack enforcement power, leading Donelli to suggest that negative perceptions will accumulate for the UAE as a destabilizing force, albeit the UAE’s influence may mitigate severe consequences.

In summary, the UAE’s involvement in Sudan is characterized by allegations of support to the Rapid Support Forces amidst a protracted civil war, claims of genocide, and ambitions for political and resource-based influence. Despite denying complicity and labeling Sudan’s accusations as publicity stunts, the UAE faces increasing scrutiny on the international stage regarding its role in the conflict. The situation continues to evolve, raising questions about external influences on Sudan’s internal dynamics and regional stability.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com