UAE Allegedly Backs Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces Amid Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has escalated dramatically since April 2023, with the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) at the center of a humanitarian catastrophe that has displaced over 13 million people. Recent revelations suggest that the RSF, notorious for its brutal tactics, may be receiving significant backing from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), raising questions about international complicity in the conflict.
The RSF’s Rise and Brutality
The RSF, originally formed from tribal militias, has gained notoriety for its violent methods, including documented war crimes such as lynching, sexual violence, and mass looting. Videos showcasing these atrocities have circulated widely on social media, yet the identity of their backers has remained largely obscured. In an exclusive interview with Sky News, an RSF intelligence officer, who spoke under the alias Ahmed for safety reasons, confirmed widespread allegations that the UAE is a primary supporter of the RSF.
Ahmed stated, “In the beginning, it was the Russians-Wagner and the state. Now, they tell me it is the UAE supporting the RSF.” This shift in backing highlights the complex web of international interests at play in Sudan, where geopolitical maneuvering often overshadows humanitarian concerns.
The UAE’s Alleged Role
According to Ahmed, the RSF has established a financial relationship with the UAE, particularly due to Sudan’s rich gold resources. “The RSF controls areas with large gold mines-Darfur alone has more than four or five gold mines. The UAE is a gold trading hub,” he explained. This connection raises ethical questions about the exploitation of Sudan’s natural resources amid a humanitarian crisis.
The RSF’s siege of Al Fashir, the capital of North Darfur, exemplifies the dire situation on the ground. The group has reportedly blockaded the area, leading to severe food shortages for nearly a million residents. Daily drone strikes and shelling have compounded the suffering, as the RSF seeks to tighten its grip on western Sudan.
The Military Landscape
The conflict has drawn in various factions, including the Sudanese military and former rebel groups. Idris Ali, an intelligence commander for the Joint Task Forces-comprised of former rebels armed by the state-expressed a commitment to resist the RSF’s advances. “Our patriotism does not allow us to surrender. Our right to the land means we have to fight until our last breath,” he stated.
The RSF’s access to sophisticated weaponry, including drones, has given it a significant advantage in the conflict. Ali noted that many of these weapons are believed to originate from the UAE, with Chad serving as a transit point for arms shipments into Sudan.
Documented Evidence of Arms Transfers
Reports indicate that at least 86 flights from the UAE to Amdjarras airport in Chad were documented by December 2024. A letter to the United Nations Security Council from Sudanese authorities alleged that 248 flights operated by UAE-chartered aircraft transported mercenaries, weapons, and military equipment into Sudan between November 2024 and February 2025.
The Guardian previously reported on a leaked UN document detailing a pattern of cargo flights from the UAE into Chad, with experts noting that while they could not confirm the contents of these flights, the evidence suggested a deliberate effort to avoid detection.
UAE’s Denial of Allegations
In response to these allegations, the UAE’s foreign ministry issued a statement categorically rejecting claims of support for either warring party. The ministry emphasized its commitment to regional and international efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and protecting civilians. “These escalating fabrications form part of a calculated pattern of deflection-shifting blame to others to evade responsibility for its own actions,” the statement read.
The UAE’s position underscores the complexities of international diplomacy in conflict zones, where narratives can be shaped by political interests. The Chadian government has not responded to requests for comment, leaving questions about its role in the arms transit largely unanswered.
Historical Context and Implications
The RSF’s emergence and its ties to the UAE can be traced back to the Darfur conflict, which began in the early 2000s. The RSF, initially formed to combat rebel groups, has since morphed into a powerful paramilitary force with significant influence over Sudan’s political landscape. The current conflict reflects a broader struggle for power and resources, exacerbated by external interests.
The humanitarian implications of this conflict are staggering. With millions displaced and countless lives lost, the situation in Sudan serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked violence and geopolitical maneuvering. The international community faces mounting pressure to address the crisis, yet the complexities of the situation make effective intervention challenging.
Conclusion
As the conflict in Sudan continues to unfold, the alleged backing of the RSF by the UAE raises critical questions about accountability and the role of international actors in exacerbating humanitarian crises. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation as various factions vie for control. The plight of the Sudanese people hangs in the balance, underscoring the urgent need for a concerted international response to restore peace and stability in the region.
