Democratic lawmakers threaten to block UAE arms sales, insisting on clarity regarding the UAE’s alleged support for the RSF in Sudan. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Congresswoman Sara Jacobs demand confirmation from the Biden administration that the UAE is not aiding the RSF before allowing planned arms transactions. Concerns for humanitarian issues in Sudan drive their position, as millions face displacement due to the conflict.
Two Democratic lawmakers from the United States, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, have expressed their intentions to obstruct arms sales to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to allegations of the Gulf nation’s support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amid the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan. Their concerns are stated in a letter directed to President Biden on December 2, wherein they assert that unless the administration can certify that the UAE has not provided assistance to the RSF, they will seek a vote on a resolution of disapproval concerning the $1.2 billion arms package intended for the UAE, which includes rockets and missiles.
The lawmakers’ letter outlines their worries regarding reports of the UAE supplying arms and ammunition to the RSF, which has been implicated in serious human rights abuses during Sudan’s civil war that began in April 2023. With over eight million individuals displaced and multiple humanitarian crises manifesting as a result of the conflict, they advocate for a suspension of offensive arms sales until the Emirati support for the RSF has ceased.
Despite the urgency of the situation in Sudan, the Biden administration has reportedly focused on other international issues, primarily the conflict in Gaza and Lebanon, resulting in a lack of attention to the escalating violence in Sudan. According to various sources, including a senior U.S. official, the UAE is perceived as a key supporter of the RSF, yet the U.S. response appears insufficient given the gravity of the situation. The lawmakers have emphasized the necessity for accountability and transparency in U.S. arms sales, highlighting that a partnership should not equate to unrestricted military support.
In addition to voicing their discontent, the lawmakers referenced President Biden’s earlier decision to label the UAE as a major defense partner, which raises questions about future arms transactions. They contend that as long as the UAE collaborates with the RSF, known for exacerbating the humanitarian disaster in Sudan, further arms provisions should be halted. Despite the UAE’s denial of supporting the RSF, the concerns articulated by U.S. officials reflect significant apprehensions regarding the Emirati military’s involvement and its implications for regional stability and human rights.
The current situation in Sudan is dire, with an ongoing civil war resulting in widespread significant human suffering and displacement. The RSF, a paramilitary group, is engaged in fighting against the Sudanese military, leading to catastrophic humanitarian consequences. The United States has been urged to reassess its arms sales and foreign policy concerning nations implicated in such conflicts. The lawmakers’ proposal to block arms sales to the UAE underscores the complex geopolitics in the region, specifically highlighting U.S. relations with Middle Eastern nations amid emerging crises.
In summary, Democratic lawmakers are taking a firm stance against the UAE’s involvement in the Sudan conflict, linking it to ongoing arms sales. They demand accountability and transparency from the Biden administration regarding military support to allies accused of humanitarian violations. The situation encapsulates broader tensions in U.S. foreign policy, urging a reevaluation of partnerships that compromise human rights amid geopolitical interests.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
