Sudan accuses the UAE of complicity in genocide at the ICJ, citing its support for the Rapid Support Forces amid ongoing civil conflict. The UAE’s interests in Sudan stem from the nation’s vast resources and strategic location. Allegations of war crimes persist from both military factions, with the UAE denying any wrongdoing while navigating complex regional dynamics.
Sudan has lodged a formal complaint against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), alleging the UAE’s involvement in genocide due to its supposed support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This dire accusation highlights concerns over the UAE’s influence amid Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict, which has persisted for nearly two years between the RSF and the regular army, an assertion that UAE officials have categorically denied.
The strategic importance of Sudan to the UAE is multifaceted; it is rich in natural resources like gold and agricultural lands and serves as a critical maritime channel on the Red Sea. Lost stability in the regional context threatens UAE interests, especially following the coup in 2021 by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, also known as Hemeti, which has led to recent violent clashes.
The UAE’s objectives in Sudan aim to bolster political sway in this pivotal country, as stated by Andreas Krieg from King’s College London. Emirati companies see Sudan as an investment hotspot for resources, while the country also supplies commodities that the resource-scarce UAE desires. Experts such as Hamid Khalafallah suggest that the UAE has a pattern of partnering with paramilitary forces across Africa to exploit these resources.
In addition to its trade ambitions, the UAE has been accused of indirectly supporting the RSF, despite denials from Emirati officials. Donelli notes that historical ties stem from Sudan’s cooperation in Saudi Arabia’s coalition against the Yemeni civil war beginning in 2015. Over time, UAE support for the RSF may reflect a strategic rift with Saudi Arabia as they pursue diverging goals in Sudan.
Both the RSF and the Sudanese army have faced accusations of war crimes amid the escalating conflict, which has led to extensive loss of life and massive displacements. In January, the RSF faced U.S. accusations of engaging in genocide. At the same time, reports indicated that the UAE had failed to cease military aid to the RSF, further stirring the controversy surrounding the issue.
With its case lodged at the ICJ, Sudan claims that the UAE’s actions equate to complicity in genocide. The UAE has dismissed these allegations as “publicity stunts,” expressing confidence in outmaneuvering this legal challenge. Donelli highlights that while the UAE could face reputational harm, its significant political and financial leverage may insulate it from substantial consequences resulting from this situation.
The UAE’s alleged involvement in Sudan’s civil conflict, particularly its support for the RSF, has drawn serious accusations of complicity in genocide. As Sudan seeks redress at the ICJ, the outcome may tarnish the UAE’s international reputation but could be mitigated by its established political and economic power. The scenario underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in Sudan, marked by resource exploitation and shifting alliances in the region.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
