Sudan has filed a case against the UAE, accusing it of arming paramilitary forces linked to ethnic attacks in the ongoing civil war, leading to a humanitarian crisis. The conflict is viewed as a proxy war influenced by regional actors like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The U.S. aid freeze has further worsened the famine crisis in Sudan, putting pressure on the local population.
Sudan has initiated legal action against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of supplying arms to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces amidst the ongoing civil war. This group has been implicated in genocidal acts in Darfur, according to U.S. officials. The conflict has led to the largest displacement crisis globally and the first global famine declaration in decades.
Experts indicate that the civil war in Sudan has morphed into a proxy conflict, with Gulf nations utilizing the turmoil to assert their dominance in the region. Geopolitical analysts highlight Sudan’s strategic location as a critical junction connecting the Middle East to Africa, with its Red Sea coastline and proximity to a vital shipping route for oil and gas. Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia view this as an opportunity to solidify their hegemonic position, with the latter acting as a self-proclaimed peacemaker while supporting the Sudanese army. Investigations have suggested that the UAE is covertly supplying weapons to the Rapid Support Forces disguised as humanitarian aid.
The freeze on U.S. aid implemented by the former Trump administration has obstructed efforts to combat the ongoing famine in Sudan, effectively closing about 80% of emergency food kitchens. Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court denied a plea to maintain the aid freeze, yet the timeline for releasing funds remains uncertain. Consequently, local aid workers report dire conditions in Sudan where many are suffering from severe hunger. Although China is perceived as a potential supporter in the region, its approach has historically revolved around deal-based partnerships rather than aid provision, raising concerns about its impact on humanitarian needs in Sudan.
Sudan’s legal case against the UAE underscores the complexities of the civil war, which has become a proxy battleground for regional powers. With accusations of arms support fueling ethnic violence, the situation has worsened humanitarian crises exacerbated by U.S. aid freezes. As the conflict evolves, the role of global powers and their interests in Sudan will be critical to the country’s future stability.
Original Source: www.semafor.com
