U.S. lawmakers claim the UAE continues to supply arms to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, undermining previous assurances. Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Sara Jacobs emphasize the need to block arms sales to the UAE in light of the RSF’s human rights abuses. The RSF has been accused of genocide, raising significant concerns amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
United States lawmakers have raised concerns that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has breached its commitments by continuing to supply arms to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which the U.S. has accused of committing genocide. Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Sara Jacobs indicated that recent briefings from Biden administration officials revealed that the UAE is still providing weapons to these paramilitary groups, despite earlier assurances from the UAE that these transfers had ceased.
Senator Van Hollen stated, “It is imperative that the United States not provide weapons to countries that are in turn providing military support to the RSF and complicit in its genocidal actions.” In response to continuing support for the RSF, both lawmakers aim to prevent future arms deals with the UAE, particularly following President Trump’s negotiations for a substantial arms package during his term.
During the final days of the Biden administration, Secretary of State Antony Blinken labeled the RSF as having engaged in genocide in Darfur, referencing a historical pattern of violence by related paramilitary forces. The State Department unveiled allegations against the RSF, indicating their systematic targeting of Darfur’s non-Arab communities through various heinous acts, including killings and sexual assaults.
In spite of international scrutiny and credible findings from UN experts regarding the UAE’s activities, the UAE has consistently denied its involvement in arming the RSF. As the conflict between rival generals in Sudan escalates, other nations, including Egypt, Turkey, Iran, and Russia, are also implicated in supporting opposing factions, thereby prolonging violence that has resulted in significant loss of life and a growing humanitarian crisis.
Upon leaving office, Blinken imposed sanctions on both generals leading the factions in Sudan, asserting that neither is fit to lead. However, U.S. officials report that the Sudanese army remains confident in its military capabilities, claiming to have successfully broken a siege that had been imposed since hostilities erupted in April 2023.
The discussions among U.S. lawmakers revolve around the alleged continuation of arms supplies from the United Arab Emirates to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces, amidst accusations of genocide against the RSF. Despite assurances from the UAE to the Biden administration claiming they were not transferring weapons, evidence suggests contrary actions. This report highlights the critical geopolitical implications and the need for accountability concerning military support to organizations accused of grave human rights violations.
In summary, U.S. lawmakers have expressed serious concerns over the UAE’s alleged continuation of arms supplies to the RSF in Sudan, calling into question their commitments made to the prior U.S. administration. As the situation escalates, lawmakers are poised to block future arms sales to the UAE, signifying the importance of adhering to international human rights standards. The implications of these arms transactions extend beyond local conflicts, suggesting a need for greater scrutiny and intervention in the region.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
