Sudan has launched a genocide case against the UAE at the ICJ for alleged support of the RSF’s ethnic violence against the Masalit tribe. The UAE plans to dismiss the claims, asserting they lack basis. Sudan’s case accuses the RSF of severe abuses amid ongoing civil conflict. The ICJ is set to examine emergency measures, but final rulings may take years.
Sudan has filed a case against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the UAE of violating the Genocide Convention by allegedly arming the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The ICJ reported Sudan’s claim on Thursday, saying it aims to hold the UAE accountable for support that enabled serious human rights violations.
The UAE intends to seek immediate dismissal of the case, asserting that it lacks legal and factual merit, as stated by an Emirati official. This contention is amidst intensified attacks by the RSF and allied militias targeting the non-Arab Masalit tribe in West Darfur, with the US recognizing these acts as genocide in January.
Sudanese officials have frequently accused the UAE of directly supporting the RSF, which are engaged in a civil war with the Sudanese government. Although the UAE denies these allegations, UN experts and US legislators have found them credible. Sudan’s allegations include serious crimes such as genocide, murder, rape, and forced displacement, all purportedly enabled by UAE support to the RSF.
An official from the UAE commented that the Sudanese Armed Forces’ (SAF) actions in the ICJ are seen as a disingenuous move to distract from their own involvement in atrocities in Sudan. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and RSF erupted following a power struggle in April 2023, leading to severe humanitarian crises including widespread hunger and disease.
The ICJ, which adjudicates disputes between states and treaty violations, will hear Sudan’s plea for emergency measures to mandate the UAE to prevent further genocidal acts. Although the court will address emergency measures within weeks, establishing a final ruling may take years, potentially determining the status of genocide in Darfur. Meanwhile, the RSF is allegedly attempting to establish a parallel government, leading to tensions with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
Sudan has initiated a significant legal action against the UAE at the ICJ, alleging violations of the Genocide Convention through support for the RSF. The situation highlights ongoing ethnic violence in Darfur and the broader implications of international intervention. While the ICJ may address immediate concerns, the resolution of such grave accusations could take years, underscoring the complexities of international law in conflict situations.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
