The UAE has called for a humanitarian pause in the Sudan war during Ramadan to facilitate aid delivery. This comes amid allegations of its support for the RSF in a conflict that has resulted in significant casualties and displacements. The UAE pledged an extra $200 million in humanitarian aid, while the situation in Sudan remains a major global concern due to its humanitarian crisis.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has called for a humanitarian pause in the ongoing war in Sudan during the month of Ramadan, with the intention of facilitating the delivery of much-needed aid to affected populations. This appeal was made during a meeting of leaders in Ethiopia focused on the crisis. Meanwhile, the UAE has faced allegations from the United Nations and other entities regarding its support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have been engaged in conflict with the Sudanese army since April 2023, resulting in significant casualties and displacements.
Despite previous commitments to the United States in December not to arm the RSF, recent statements from U.S. lawmakers suggest that the UAE may have violated this pledge. The lawmakers accused the UAE of continuing to supply arms to the Sudanese rebels after attempts to block a $1.2 billion arms purchase. Reem al-Hashimy, the UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasized the urgent need for intervention: “This war has really gone on for too long, cost too many lives and brought about immense suffering.”
Al-Hashimy expressed hope for a humanitarian pause to enable the unhindered delivery of aid, especially for vulnerable groups such as women and children. The UAE has pledged an additional $200 million in humanitarian assistance for Sudan. Other nations, including Egypt, Turkey, Iran, and Russia, have also been criticized for their roles in supporting factions within the conflict.
Currently, the Sudanese army governs the eastern and northern regions, while the RSF controls most of the Darfur area, where access to aid has reportedly been obstructed. The African Union has characterized the current situation in Sudan as the worst humanitarian crisis globally, with alarming statistics indicating that over 431,000 children suffered from malnutrition last year.
In conclusion, the UAE’s call for a humanitarian pause during Ramadan seeks to alleviate the suffering in Sudan amidst ongoing conflict. While the UAE has committed additional funds for humanitarian aid, it faces scrutiny over allegations of arming the RSF. The dire humanitarian conditions have drawn international concern, highlighting the urgent need for a coordinated response to aid those affected by the conflict.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
