Gold, Guns, and Genocide: The UAE’s Role in Sudan’s Conflict

The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, is heavily influenced by the illicit gold trade. Both the military and RSF are smuggling gold to fund their weaponry, leading to significant civilian casualties. The UAE plays a major role in this trade, despite supporting the RSF, which has faced allegations of severe war crimes. Declan Walsh underscores the fundamental role of gold in the RSF’s rise to prominence.

In light of escalating violence in Sudan, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has renewed calls for an immediate ceasefire between the country’s military forces and the paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Declan Walsh, the chief Africa correspondent for The New York Times, has highlighted how the ongoing conflict is intimately connected to the illicit gold trade. Both factions are allegedly profiting from Sudan’s gold resources, illicitly smuggling the precious metal to finance their military engagements, including the acquisition of drones, firearms, and missiles that have led to significant civilian casualties since the outbreak of civil war in April 2023.

Walsh emphasizes that a substantial portion of the profits derived from gold is funneled into the United Arab Emirates. Notably, the UAE has shown support for the RSF, despite accumulating evidence detailing the group’s involvement in war crimes and acts of brutality against civilians. “Gold is really at the heart of the RSF’s ascent to power,” Walsh remarked, pinpointing the critical role that gold plays in sustaining the RSF’s military capabilities amid widespread human rights violations.

The situation in Sudan has deteriorated significantly, marked by civil unrest and violence since April 2023. The clash between Sudan’s military and the RSF has not only caused humanitarian crises but has also attracted international scrutiny due to the illicit activities surrounding the country’s rich gold resources. The illegal extraction and export of gold are integral to funding the armed conflict, exacerbating human suffering and contributing to ongoing war crimes that the RSF allegedly commits.

The conflict in Sudan highlights the dire consequences of the illicit gold trade, as both military factions exploit these resources for warfare. The UAE’s strategic support for the RSF, despite their involvement in atrocities, raises concerns about international complicity in the conflict. Addressing the underlying issues of smuggling and financial circulation of war resources is crucial in halting the violence and fostering peace in the region.

Original Source: www.democracynow.org

About Liam Nguyen

Liam Nguyen is an insightful tech journalist with over ten years of experience exploring the intersection of technology and society. A graduate of MIT, Liam's articles offer critical perspectives on innovation and its implications for everyday life. He has contributed to leading tech magazines and online platforms, making him a respected name in the industry.

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