U.S. lawmakers call on UAE to cease support for Sudan’s RSF

December 21, 2023 (WASHINGTON) – A group of Democratic U.S. Congress members has called on the United Arab Emirates to end its support for Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

In a letter to UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on December 19, the lawmakers expressed “grave concern” over reports that the UAE is providing material support, including arms and supplies, to the RSF.

The letter was signed by Sara Jacobs, Jason Crow, Colin Allred, Dina Titus, Joaquin Castro, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, James P. McGovern, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Dan Kildee, and Barbara Lee.

The call comes amid growing international scrutiny of the RSF’s role in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. The paramilitary group, which is led by General Mohammed Hamdan Daglo “Hemetti,” has been accused of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The lawmakers urged the UAE to reconsider its policy towards Sudan, citing the “needless and unconscionable” conflict that has displaced millions of Sudanese civilians. They also pointed to the UAE’s violation of the UN arms embargo on Darfur, which was established in 2005.

“We share UAE concerns about the possible return of Bashir-era officials to power,” the lawmakers wrote, “but continued military support to the RSF only deepens the conflict and risks state collapse or division.”

They concluded by urging the UAE to “work with the United States and international community toward a solution that leads to an end to this conflict that is in the best interest of the Sudanese people.”

The letter’s significance stems from its rare occurrence, marking a departure from the norm of Democratic silence towards UAE policies, particularly regarding its actions in Sudan. Also, it puts more pressure on the Biden administration to address the UAE’s involvement in Sudan.

Despite the U.S. sanctions imposed on RSF leaders, the UAE has declined to implement them, enabling these individuals to continue operating their financial networks and companies based in the Gulf country.

The UAE Foreign Ministry has repeatedly denied providing military assistance to the Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

In August 2023, the ministry categorically dismissed allegations suggesting the UAE had supplied weapons or ammunition to the RSF, despite reports from The Wall Street Journal and other media outlets.

The ministry asserted its neutral position in the conflict and emphasized its commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty.

(ST)