Cairo Strengthens Support for Sudan Amid RSF Conflict and Egyptian Captives’ Release

Cairo is amplifying its support for the Sudanese government following the release of nine Egyptian captives from the RSF. Egypt rejects any attempt to establish a parallel Sudanese government while fostering regional support to unify political factions. With concerns about potential fragmentation and humanitarian crises in Sudan, diplomatic efforts are ongoing to stabilize the situation and prevent further conflict.

Cairo is enhancing its support for the Sudanese government as it contends with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This initiative was buoyed by the recent return of nine Egyptian nationals, previously held captive by the RSF, after a collaborative rescue operation by Egyptian and Sudanese military forces. The Egyptian media reported that these individuals, who had been residing in Khartoum and engaged in the household goods trade, are now safely home following their release.

According to the Al-Qahera News channel, their release followed extensive negotiations guided by directives from President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, aimed at ensuring the safe return of Egyptian citizens. The kidnapped individuals were relocated from conflict zones in central Khartoum to Port Sudan before returning to Egypt. Many Egyptians found themselves inadvertently caught in the violence that erupted between the Sudanese army and the RSF starting in April 2023.

The RSF gained control over significant parts of Khartoum, leading to property seizures affecting both Sudanese and foreign residents. Egyptian traders remaining in Khartoum for their livelihoods fell victim to RSF detentions. Emad Moawad, one of the freed captives, revealed to Reuters that they were wrongfully accused of espionage by the RSF, enduring captivity for over 19 months.

In light of these developments, Egypt is actively seeking support from Arab and Gulf nations for the Sudanese government. Following the captive release, Egyptian officials have rejected any proposals for a parallel Sudanese government, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Sudan’s unity and sovereignty. Diplomatic sources indicated that Cairo is collaborating with several African countries and Gulf states, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to strengthen the Sudanese government’s position.

Cairo considers Sudan’s stability essential for its own national security, thus engaging with organizations like the African Union and the United Nations to advocate for a political resolution to the ongoing crisis. Egyptian officials express concern about the fragmentation of Sudan’s political landscape and fear it could result in rival factions establishing separate zones of influence, potentially leading to increased regional instability.

Controversially, criticism has been directed towards the Kenyan government for its perceived support of the RSF, especially after hosting representatives from the armed group in February for a transitional constitution signing. The RSF has been accused of severe humanitarian crimes during the current conflict, which has precipitated widespread displacement and severe hunger.

The situation in Sudan remains precarious, with Cairo working diligently to bolster the Sudanese government against the RSF amid ongoing violence. The recent release of Egyptian nationals underscores the complexity of the conflict. As Egypt seeks to unify Sudanese factions and prevent fragmentation, concerns about regional stability and humanitarian issues persist, necessitating continued diplomatic engagement and support from neighboring nations and the international community.

Original Source: www.newarab.com