Cairo is amplifying its support for Sudan’s government following the release of nine Egyptian captives from RSF detention. These efforts include political unification initiatives and international diplomacy to stabilize Sudan amidst ongoing conflict. Egypt views the stability of Sudan as critical to its national security amid fears of further disintegration and humanitarian crises.
Cairo is intensifying its support for the Sudanese government as the nation faces conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This resurgence of support comes following the successful release of nine Egyptian nationals, who had been held captive by the RSF, through a collaborative effort by Egyptian and Sudanese military forces.
On Thursday, reports from Egyptian media indicated that the freed individuals were previously engaged in trade within Khartoum. Their release was described as the result of extensive behind-the-scenes negotiations guided by directives from President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, aimed at ensuring their safe return.
The Al-Qahera News channel highlighted the transport of the captives from conflict areas in central Khartoum to Port Sudan prior to their repatriation. Since the commencement of hostilities between the Sudanese army and the RSF in April 2023, many Egyptians in Sudan have faced increasing dangers, leading some to remain in Khartoum to protect their businesses.
Emad Moawad, one of the freed captives, recounted that the RSF had wrongfully accused them of espionage for the Egyptian intelligence service. He detailed their harrowing experience, stating, “Sixty-five days later, the RSF raided our house and held us captive for over 19 months.”
In the wake of their release, Egypt is reportedly seeking to rally support from Arab and Gulf nations to reinforce the Sudanese government. Cairo has firmly opposed any plans to form a parallel Sudanese government or actions undermining Sudanese sovereignty, engaging in discussions with Arab and African nations to unify political factions and mitigate the escalating humanitarian crisis.
Cairo’s diplomatic initiatives involve collaboration with neighboring countries like Chad, South Sudan, and Kenya, as well as Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Egyptian officials consider Sudan’s stability crucial for their national security and are cooperating with international organizations, including the African Union and the United Nations, to foster a political resolution.
Concerns from Egyptian officials stem from the possibility that fragmented political groups in Sudan may provoke rival factions to carve out competing control zones, which could exacerbate regional instability and give rise to a new refugee crisis.
The Kenyan government has faced backlash for allegedly supporting the RSF by facilitating a meeting of Sudanese rebel leaders in Nairobi. Furthermore, the armed group has been accused of atrocities throughout the prolonged conflict, prompting the International Court of Justice to reveal that Sudan has initiated legal proceedings against the UAE, alleging its complicity in genocide through its backing of the RSF.
Cairo’s proactive measures to support the Sudanese government are driven by concerns for regional stability and national security. The successful release of Egyptian captives signifies a strengthened alliance between Egyptian and Sudanese forces. Simultaneously, Egypt aims to unify various Sudanese political factions, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining Sudan’s sovereignty against potential partitions.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
