Democratic lawmakers have threatened to obstruct a $1.2 billion arms sale to the UAE unless President Biden can confirm that the UAE is not supporting the RSF in Sudan, amid concerns over humanitarian crises and human rights violations linked to the conflict.
Democratic lawmakers in the United States are taking a firm stance regarding proposed arms sales to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In a letter addressed to President Biden, Senators Chris Van Hollen and Congresswoman Sara Jacobs expressed their intent to block the sale of offensive weapons, valued at $1.2 billion, unless the administration can certify that the UAE is not providing support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan.
The lawmakers articulated significant concern regarding allegations that the UAE has supplied military support amid Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which erupted in April 2023 and has been described by the United Nations as the world’s most severe displacement crisis. They urged the administration to suspend offensive arms sales until evidence of such support ceases, suggesting that an assurance from President Biden would alleviate the need for congressional action.
The conflict has resulted in over eight million displaced individuals, with severe humanitarian implications, including widespread food insecurity. Reports implicate the RSF, under the command of Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, in numerous human rights violations. While the UAE has denied these allegations, US officials have expressed frustration over the perceived inaction concerning the UAE’s alleged complicity in these abuses.
Furthermore, there is concern over what some officials describe as a double standard in US foreign policy, particularly in contrasting reactions to Russian actions in Ukraine versus the UAE’s involvement in Sudan.
The dialogue between lawmakers and the Biden administration emphasizes the need for a reevaluation of the bilateral relationship with the UAE, reinforcing that U.S. arms should not be given to a nation that may be complicit in exacerbating humanitarian crises.
The lawmakers acknowledged the importance of the US-UAE partnership but articulated that it should not provide a “blank check” for actions that contribute to humanitarian disasters in the region.
The situation in Sudan has escalated since the onset of the civil war in April 2023, leading to catastrophic humanitarian crises marked by mass displacement and severe food shortages. Various factions within Sudan, including the Sudanese military and the RSF, have been accused of committing egregious human rights violations during the conflict. Allegations surfaced that the UAE has been providing support to the RSF, which provoked concern among US lawmakers who are advocating for more stringent oversight of arms sales to the Gulf state. This highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics and the pressing need for the United States to reassess its military relationships and the implications for human rights.
The actions taken by Democratic lawmakers underscore a growing demand for accountability in foreign arms sales, specifically in relation to the UAE’s alleged support for the RSF in Sudan. The pending decision from the Biden administration is poised to illustrate the United States’ commitment to balancing international relations with humanitarian responsibilities. The situation in Sudan greatly impacts US foreign policy discussions and highlights the critical intersection of military assistance and human rights considerations in diplomatic relations.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
