The UAE has stopped supplying arms to Sudan’s RSF after U.S. pressure, as reported by the White House. This follows Senator Van Hollen’s legislative efforts to block arms deals with the UAE unless it can be verified that no weapons are being supplied to the RSF. The White House has committed to providing a compliance update by January 17, 2025, amid ongoing allegations and denials regarding UAE’s involvement in the conflict in Sudan.
On December 19, 2024, it was reported that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has halted its arms supply to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, following interventions from the United States government. This decision was communicated to U.S. senators by the White House amid increasing scrutiny over the UAE’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, where the RSF has been engaged in fierce battles with the Sudanese army for over a year and a half. The development follows recent legislative efforts led by Senator Chris Van Hollen, who sought to block U.S. arms shipments to UAE unless compliance with non-supply to RSF could be verified.
According to a letter addressed to Senator Van Hollen by Brett McGurk, White House Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, the UAE has assured the U.S. administration that it is not supplying any weapons to the RSF presently and commits to not doing so in the future. McGurk has pledged to deliver a report on the UAE’s compliance by January 17, 2025, as part of efforts to monitor the veracity of these assurances. The allegations concerning UAE’s arms support to RSF have faced strong denials from the UAE but have remained a contentious issue, with the Sudanese army and United Nations experts accusing the Emirates of backing the paramilitary group.
This situation is particularly relevant in light of U.S. domestic policy concerning arms sales, which mandates that significant arms deals undergo congressional review. Although senators can compel votes on disapproval resolutions, similar powers do not extend to House members, highlighting the political complexities involved in addressing foreign arms sales. As the situation evolves, scrutiny over UAE’s commitments and U.S. legislative responses will be critical in shaping future relations and security considerations in the region.
The conflict in Sudan, particularly involving the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has drawn international attention, especially regarding the alleged foreign support that these forces receive. The RSF, a paramilitary group, has been engaged in a violent struggle against the Sudanese army, which has raised concerns about human rights violations and regional instability. The UAE’s involvement, particularly its alleged arms supply to the RSF, has been under close scrutiny, prompting responses from U.S. lawmakers aiming to ensure compliance with international arms regulations. The recent move to halt supply reflects shifting dynamics in U.S.-UAE relations influenced by pressures to uphold regional peace.
In conclusion, the decision by the United Arab Emirates to cease its arms supply to the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan marks a significant development amid rising tensions and scrutiny of foreign military support in the ongoing conflict. With U.S. legislative efforts focused on ensuring compliance with arms regulations, the UAE will be closely monitored in the upcoming months. This scenario underscores the complexities of arms sales internationally and the critical role of congruence with human rights considerations in foreign policy.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
