The UAE has pledged to halt arms transfers to Sudan’s RSF amid ongoing civil war, as US lawmakers confirm continued arms sales to the UAE contingent on compliance. The US is providing $200 million in aid to combat Sudan’s humanitarian crisis, with warnings of widespread famine affecting millions.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has assured the United States that it will refrain from providing arms to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) involved in Sudan’s ongoing civil war, according to statements made by US lawmakers. In light of this commitment, which aims to quell concerns regarding the UAE’s military involvement in Sudan, the US has decided to proceed with $1.2 billion in arms sales to the UAE. This development follows a broader effort to address the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where recent violence has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands since April 2023.
Senator Chris Van Hollen disclosed a communication from the White House affirming that the UAE is not currently supplying weapons to the RSF and will not do so in the future. The letter from Brett McGurk, the White House’s Middle East coordinator, underscores the importance of assessing the credibility of these assurances by mid-January. Meanwhile, both Van Hollen and fellow Democrat Representative Sara Jacobs expressed a commitment to closely monitor the UAE’s actions regarding arms transfers to the RSF.
The humanitarian situation in Sudan is dire, with reports indicating that approximately 1.7 million people are facing famine or are at risk of starvation. The World Food Program has warned of potentially catastrophic hunger levels, urging the international community to take urgent action. Amidst this backdrop, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated the call for aid, contributing an additional $200 million to support Sudanese relief efforts.
As the situation evolves, the UAE’s pledges and the US’s humanitarian response will be critical to addressing both the conflict and its associated humanitarian crises in Sudan.
In April 2023, violent clashes erupted in Sudan, leading to widespread human suffering and a humanitarian crisis characterized by mass displacement and famine. The RSF, a paramilitary group with a controversial history and alleged ties to foreign powers, has been a key player in this conflict. Addressing concerns about the UAE’s military support for the RSF has become a pressing issue for US lawmakers, who are advocating for peace and stability in the region. Recent commitments from the UAE to halt arms transfers signify a potential shift in the dynamics of the conflict in Sudan, which has drawn substantial international attention. The United States is actively working to provide humanitarian aid to alleviate the crisis as the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate.
The assurances from the UAE regarding arms transfers to the RSF represent a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at curbing the violence in Sudan. As the humanitarian disaster unfolds, US lawmakers are vigilant in monitoring compliance with these assurances, ensuring that humanitarian aid reaches those in need. The commitment of the United States to provide financial support underscores the urgent need for international collaboration in addressing the complexities of Sudan’s civil conflict and its dire humanitarian implications.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
