The UAE has assured the United States it will not arm Sudan’s RSF amid the ongoing civil war, coinciding with the U.S. announcing $200 million in aid for Sudan’s humanitarian crisis. The pledge led U.S. lawmakers to reconsider blocking arms sales to the UAE, pending compliance. Despite previous allegations, the UAE insists it has not provided weapons to the RSF, critical for potential peace negotiations.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has assured the United States that it will refrain from supplying arms to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to U.S. lawmakers. This commitment follows the U.S. announcement of $200 million in new humanitarian aid for Sudan, where a devastating civil conflict has resulted in significant loss of life since April 2023. As a gesture of good faith, the UAE’s pledge led the lawmakers to reconsider blocking $1.2 billion in advanced weapon sales to the UAE. Senator Chris Van Hollen reported receiving a letter from the White House, citing assurances from the UAE regarding its arms dealings with the RSF. Despite previous claims of weapon transfers, the UAE maintains that it is not providing arms to the RSF and intends to continue this stance in the future.
In light of these developments, it has been highlighted by U.S. officials that the UAE’s influence over the RSF is crucial, as diminishing such support could potentially lead to negotiations and a ceasefire, fostering stability in Sudan. Amidst this humanitarian crisis, the World Food Program has alerted that Sudan faces one of the largest hunger emergencies in history, affecting millions of people. Furthermore, Secretary of State Antony Blinken implored the international community not to overlook the dire conditions in Sudan, emphasizing the necessity of humanitarian assistance. As tensions persist and the humanitarian situation escalates, the need for accountability and compliance from the UAE remains a priority for U.S. lawmakers.
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has created one of the worst humanitarian crises globally, prompting serious concerns regarding external arms support to various factions. The UAE’s prior alleged involvement in supplying arms to the Rapid Support Forces has been a point of contention, especially in U.S. foreign relations, where there is a push for greater accountability in arms dealings. The current political and military landscape in Sudan is characterized by a struggle for control, with the RSF exerting significant power over various regions, complicating efforts for peace and stability. The United States has increased its humanitarian aid in response to the crisis, but the situation remains dire with millions at risk of famine and severe hunger.
In conclusion, the assurances from the UAE not to arm Sudan’s RSF represent a significant diplomatic development amidst a troubling humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The U.S. lawmakers’ efforts to oversee arms sales, coupled with the potential for increased humanitarian aid, may help mitigate the ongoing violence and support peace initiatives. However, the effectiveness of these measures largely depends on the UAE’s compliance and the international community’s unwavering focus on the crisis affecting millions in Sudan.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
