Sudan has accused the UAE of complicity in genocide related to the civil war, focusing on its involvement with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The UAE is viewed as seeking political influence and resource access in Sudan, particularly in gold. Allegations include military support to the RSF, which the UAE denies. The case filed at the ICJ could impact UAE’s reputation but may not lead to severe consequences due to its substantial influence.
Sudan has recently accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of complicity in genocide during its ongoing civil war. This accusation was presented at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), shedding light on the UAE’s alleged involvement with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a group that has been clashing with the Sudanese military for nearly two years. Despite numerous accusations, the UAE denies these claims.
Sudan, rich in natural resources like gold, gas, and agricultural land, has strategic importance due to its location near Libya and along the Red Sea. The RSF is led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who has established close ties with Emirati business interests. According to experts, the UAE seeks to influence Sudan politically and economically as it looks to invest in the country’s resources.
Analysis suggests the UAE’s ambition in Sudan stems from a desire to secure resource access, particularly minerals and arable lands not available in the Emirates. The UAE has been noted for collaborating with paramilitary groups across Africa to exploit resources. In fact, a significant portion of gold exports from Africa to the UAE, worth over 66.5% in 2022, was reportedly smuggled.
The UAE is a substantial player in the global gold trade, being the top importer of Sudanese gold, predominantly controlled by Daglo. However, the UAE’s interests extend beyond gold, as it seeks to diminish Saudi influence in Sudan while countering political Islam’s growth, perceived as a security threat. The UAE’s connection to Sudan’s military has its roots in collaboration during the Yemen conflict since 2015.
While the UAE supports Daglo’s RSF, there have been ideological shifts as the RSF aligns itself against the Muslim Brotherhood, contrasting with the military leadership tied to Sudan’s previous Islamist administration. This conflict has resulted in numerous war crimes attributed to both factions, with recent US allegations labeling the RSF’s actions as genocide.
The UAE has been accused of providing military support to the RSF, including arms through Chad, a claim it disputes. Post-filing at the ICJ, the UAE dismissed the allegations as a ‘publicity stunt,’ although it is clear that the legal case could damage its reputation internationally as a destabilizing force in Africa.
Despite potential backlash, experts predict that the UAE’s financial and political influence could insulate it from severe consequences, maintaining its strategic interests in Sudan amidst ongoing conflict.
The UAE’s alleged involvement in Sudan amidst the civil war raises significant concerns regarding international law and humanitarian issues. By examining its strategic investments and political ambitions in the region, alongside its denial of complicity in genocide accusations, the UAE appears to navigate complex international dynamics. The legal challenges from Sudan may reflect broader implications on global perceptions and potential repercussions for the UAE’s reputation and strategies in Africa.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
