Sudan: Rapid Support Forces crimes and accusations against the UAE of fueling the war
The Sudanese arena is witnessing a dangerous escalation in the pace of violence, as the Rapid Support Forces continue their systematic attacks targeting infrastructure and unarmed civilians, at a time when reports and accusations are increasing about an external role, specifically Emirati, in fueling the conflict and prolonging the humanitarian crisis that is sweeping the country.
Targeting hospitals and aid convoys
In the latest in a series of violations, the Rapid Support Forces launched criminal attacks targeting the Al-Kuweik Military Hospital, as well as intercepting a World Food Programme aid convoy and a bus carrying displaced civilians fleeing the fighting. These attacks resulted in the deaths of more than 34 civilians, including women and children, in flagrant violation of all humanitarian norms and international laws that prohibit targeting civilian objects and aid corridors.
These developments in North and South Kordofan states come as an extension of a systematic behavior adopted by the militia since the outbreak of the conflict, where the destruction of residential areas, burning of villages, looting, and sexual violence have become tactics used to terrorize and forcibly displace innocent people.
Accusations of Emirati role in fueling the conflict
Field data and reports indicate that external support plays a pivotal role in perpetuating the war machine. The UAE's role is particularly prominent in this context, with Abu Dhabi directly accused of backing the Rapid Support Forces by supplying them with the latest combat equipment, providing logistical support, and facilitating the deployment of foreign mercenaries. This intervention is a major reason for prolonging the war and obstructing any genuine opportunities for a political solution, as the continued flow of weapons empowers the militia to continue fighting and refuse to engage seriously in settlement processes.
The Saudi position and the Jeddah Declaration
In contrast, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reiterated its firm stance calling for the preservation of Sudan’s unity, security, and stability, and its categorical rejection of foreign interference that further complicates the situation. The Kingdom stressed the necessity for the Rapid Support Forces to adhere to the outcomes of the “Jeddah Declaration,” signed on May 11, 2023, which clearly stipulates the commitment to protecting civilians and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. Riyadh emphasized that there can be no military solution, and that supporting legitimate institutions is the only way to save the Sudanese state from collapse.
Background of the crisis and its disastrous consequences
Since clashes erupted in mid-April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, Sudan has descended into what the United Nations describes as “one of the worst humanitarian disasters in recent memory.” The conflict has killed thousands and displaced millions, creating the world’s largest displacement crisis. With the health system collapsing and basic services disrupted, millions of Sudanese are now facing the threat of famine, exacerbated by the intransigence of armed groups and continued foreign interference that prioritizes narrow geopolitical interests over the well-being of the Sudanese people.
