The commander of Sudan’s RSF, Mohamed Dagalo, accused Egypt of conducting airstrikes and providing military support to the Sudanese Army in the ongoing civil war. Cairo denied these allegations, asserting its efforts to halt the violence. Meanwhile, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on an RSF leader amidst worsening humanitarian conditions in Sudan.
The chief of Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Mohamed Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, has publicly accused Egypt of participating in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. In a video message shared on his official social media page, Dagalo claimed that the Egyptian military conducted airstrikes targeting RSF troops. He expressed his condolences for RSF soldiers he described as ‘treacherously martyred’ by Egyptian aircraft. In his 39-minute address, Dagalo further accused Egypt of providing training and armaments, specifically mentioning drones supplied to the Sudanese Army (SAF). He alleged that these strikes utilized U.S.-manufactured weapons, implying American complicity: “If the Americans were not in agreement these bombs would not reach Sudan.” ABC News has contacted the U.S. State Department for commentary on this situation, though U.S. officials have previously urged an end to hostilities and voiced concerns regarding the escalating violence in Sudan. Dagalo alleged that Egyptian airstrikes occurred in key locations, including Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, and the southeastern city of Sennar, where the Sudanese army has recently reclaimed territory following intense confrontations. Egypt swiftly refuted Dagalo’s claims, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating, “Egypt dismisses the allegations made by the Commander of the Rapid Support Militia, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, regarding the participation of Egyptian air force in the ongoing battles in Sudan.” The statement emphasized Egypt’s commitment to ceasefire efforts, civilian protection, and humanitarian responses. Cairo also encouraged the international community to evaluate the validity of Dagalo’s assertions. Additionally, Dagalo mentioned alleged participation by Iran in the civil war and highlighted the involvement of mercenaries from various regions, including Ukraine and Tigray. This controversy arises amidst renewed U.S. sanctions against senior RSF leader Algoney Hamdan Daglo Musa, deemed responsible for procuring military equipment used in the RSF’s undertakings, including its offensive in El Fasher, North Darfur. As the conflict prolongs into its 18th month, humanitarian groups have reported a significant deterioration in conditions for displaced individuals, with the United Nations labeling the crisis as unprecedented in scale.
The accusation made by Mohamed Dagalo signifies a notable escalation in the rhetoric surrounding the ongoing civil war that erupted in Sudan in April 2023. This conflict has roots in the struggle for a transition to civilian governance, and the subsequent power dynamics have seen various factions, including the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces, vie for control. As allegations of foreign involvement emerge, particularly involving Egypt and other nations, the complex nature of the conflict is underscored. Reports of humanitarian crises and international responses highlight the urgency of addressing these accusations and the broader implications for regional stability.
In conclusion, the accusations made by RSF chief Mohamed Dagalo against Egypt reflect the intricate web of alliances and hostilities in Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict. The swift denial from Egyptian authorities indicates a potential diplomatic strain, while the allegations’ international ramifications warrant careful scrutiny. As humanitarian conditions deteriorate, the need for an effective resolution and humanitarian response becomes increasingly critical.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
