Rédaction Africa Links 24 with SudanTribune
Published on 2024-03-24 01:26:10
On March 23, 2024, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) found itself at the center of controversy following accusations from Sudan at the United Nations Security Council. Sudan alleged that the Gulf country was supplying weapons and ammunition to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in their ongoing conflict with the Sudanese people. The accusations claim that the UAE’s support violates the arms embargo on Darfur.
In response to these allegations, the UAE’s Deputy Permanent Representative, Mohamed Abushahab, wrote a letter to the Council President addressing Sudan’s comments. Abushahab vehemently denied the accusations, stating that the UAE “deeply regrets the false allegations” and emphasizing the country’s compliance with the sanctions regime. He also mentioned that the UAE has provided comprehensive information to the UN panel of experts overseeing the sanctions, demonstrating transparency and cooperation.
Abushahab’s letter emphasized the UAE’s longstanding relations with Sudan and reiterated the country’s stance on the crisis in Sudan. The UAE called for de-escalation and a return to the political process while pledging continued support for efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully.
The UN Security Council’s panel of experts reported credible evidence of weapons being smuggled from Chad to Sudan’s RSF. According to the report, cargo planes unloaded weapons at a Chadian airport, which were then transported by trucks to the Darfur border and delivered to the RSF. The weapons were either distributed in Darfur or transported to Khartoum. The panel reached out to Chad and the UAE regarding these findings, with the UAE denying any involvement and stating that their flights were for humanitarian aid. Chad has yet to respond to the inquiry.
International media reports have also highlighted the UAE’s alleged support for the Sudanese paramilitary forces, who have been accused of committing war crimes, atrocities, and severe human rights violations.
The situation remains tense as accusations and denials fly back and forth between Sudan and the UAE. The international community will closely monitor developments in the region and continue to push for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Sudan.
Read the original article on Sudan Tribune
