Sudan Cuts Diplomatic Ties with UAE Citing Allegations of Paramilitary Assistance
Sudan has severed diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates following persistent allegations that the Gulf state is supporting the opposing Rapid Support Forces in Sudan's ongoing civil conflict.
The announcement follows accusations against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for carrying out three days of assaults on the typically secure city of Port Sudan, according to a report by the BBC.
On Tuesday, Sudan’s Defence Minister Yassin Ibrahim leveled accusations against the UAE, claiming it had infringed upon Sudan’s sovereignty via its association with the RSF. The UAE has consistently refuted claims of providing financial, military, and political assistance to the paramilitary group.
Two years of conflict have resulted in the loss of thousands of lives, displaced millions from their homes, and sparked what is now considered the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis.
In the past 72 hours, drone strikes have targeted key infrastructure in Port Sudan, including an international airport, a significant power station, and a hotel. The army has attributed the attacks to the RSF, although the paramilitary organization has not yet issued a response regarding the allegations.
Port Sudan had been considered a relative safe haven in the conflict-stricken country, having until recently escaped the conflict’s destructive bombardments.
Amid the ongoing civil war, Sudan’s military forces have accused the United Arab Emirates of providing arms to the Rapid Support Forces.
The United Kingdom and the United States have each issued appeals targeting the United Arab Emirates, urging external nations to cease their support for the conflicting parties in Sudan.
