UAE’s Role in the Ongoing Crisis in Sudan: An Overview of Allegations and Interests

The United Arab Emirates has been accused by Sudan of complicity in genocide at the International Court of Justice due to alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces amid a civil war. The UAE’s interests in Sudan encompass natural resources and political influence, leading to accusations of destabilization in the region. While the UAE denies these claims, the ICJ case could harm its reputation yet shield it from severe consequences due to its financial and political prominence.

Sudan has lodged a complaint against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the Gulf monarchy of complicity in genocide amid the ongoing civil war in Sudan. This accusation brings attention to the UAE’s alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have been engaged in combat against the Sudanese army for nearly two years. The UAE has denied these allegations, firmly maintaining its position on the matter.

The UAE’s interest in Sudan stems from the nation’s vast natural resources, including substantial agricultural land, gas, and gold, making it one of Africa’s largest producers of these resources. Sudan’s strategic location, neighboring Libya and situated along the Red Sea—an essential route for oil shipping—further amplifies its importance to the UAE, which seeks political influence and economic opportunity in the region.

In 2021, Sudan’s army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan executed a coup in collaboration with RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemeti. Conflict erupted two years later between these two figures, with various nations, including the UAE, accused of supporting different parties. Andreas Krieg, a security expert, noted the UAE’s primary goal in Sudan is to enhance its political influence in such a strategically significant nation.

Emirati companies view Sudan as a critical center for investment in resources and trade, addressing the UAE’s desire for natural resources, particularly minerals and arable land scarce in its desert terrain. Reports indicate that in 2022, a significant percentage of gold exported from Africa to the UAE was smuggled, highlighting the UAE’s status as a leading market for Sudanese gold largely controlled by Daglo.

However, the UAE’s interests are not solely driven by gold. Political analysts assert that Abu Dhabi seeks to counter Saudi influence in Sudan while stifling the political Islamic movements that threaten its stability. The RSF’s alignment against the Muslim Brotherhood distinguishes it from the army, which is connected to the former regime of Omar al-Bashir.

Traditionally, ties between the Gulf states and Sudan’s military were bolstered through cooperation during the Yemeni civil war. Burhan previously led Sudanese forces allied with Saudi Arabia while the RSF worked alongside UAE forces. Despite allegations of support for Daglo, which the UAE denies, observers note that this relationship may be partly ideological, aimed at curbing Islamic political movements.

The RSF has been accused of committing war crimes during the civil conflict, resulting in thousands of casualties and mass displacements. In response to Sudan’s case, the UAE labeled the accusations a “publicity stunt” and intends to contest the claim. Though ICJ rulings are legally binding, their enforcement capacity is limited.

The trial may lead to reputational harm for the UAE, which faces growing perceptions of being a destabilizing force, particularly in Africa. Nevertheless, experts suggest that the UAE’s considerable financial and political capital may protect it from serious consequences stemming from the allegations.

In conclusion, the UAE’s involvement in Sudan is underscored by accusations of complicity in genocide linked to its support of the RSF amidst ongoing conflicts. With significant interests in Sudan’s resources and strategic location, the UAE aims to enhance its regional influence, despite facing international scrutiny and legal challenges. The outcome of Sudan’s case at the ICJ may impact the UAE’s reputation and position in the region, though its substantial resources may mitigate serious repercussions.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com