Power Struggle in Sudan: Egypt and the UAE’s Conflict Unveiled

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has escalated power struggles between Egypt, supporting the Sudanese Armed Forces, and the UAE, backing the Rapid Support Forces. U.S. sanctions have targeted both factions due to their humanitarian implications. Egypt emphasizes stability along its southern border while grappling with an immense influx of Sudanese refugees. This conflict signifies deep-rooted geopolitical tensions and existential stakes for the involved nations.

In the midst of Sudan’s devastating civil war, an undercurrent of power struggle between Egypt and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is intensifying. While Egypt endorses the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), the UAE supports the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a conflict ignited on April 15, 2023, that has led to a dire humanitarian crisis. The Biden administration imposed sanctions on both sides, alleging involvement in executions and peace obstruction.

The UAE publicly claims neutrality amidst growing evidence of its extensive support for the RSF, a stance challenged by U.S. officials. During confirmation hearings, Secretary of State Marco Rubio directly accused the UAE of aiding genocidal actions. Meanwhile, Egypt’s Foreign Minister has openly expressed support for the Sudanese army in its conflict, aligning with the SAF against the RSF.

Despite their long-standing collaboration in regional matters, Egypt and the UAE find themselves on opposing sides in Sudan’s conflicts. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s administration has depended on Gulf financial backing, particularly from the UAE, alongside recent significant investments. However, political objectives regarding Sudan’s stability diverge markedly between Cairo and Abu Dhabi.

Egypt perceives the SAF as essential for regional and national security, contrasting with the RSF’s destabilizing potential. The influx of over 1.2 million Sudanese refugees since April underscores the urgency of Egypt’s support for the SAF to maintain its border stability, especially amid Sudan’s civil upheaval.

Compounding Egypt’s concerns are issues surrounding the Nile’s water security amidst ongoing dialogues with Ethiopia concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. With Sudan historically serving as an ally, recent instability has weakened Egypt’s strategic position, prompting Egypt to forge alliances with nations like Somalia and Eritrea to maintain regional security.

In contrast, the UAE seeks to capitalize on Sudan’s resources, viewing the RSF as a vital facilitator for resource extraction. With ongoing conflict hindering the UAE’s ambitions, recent negotiations with Sudan’s military leadership have acknowledged the need for ceasefire discussions, conditional on ending UAE’s support for the RSF.

Acknowledging significant financial liabilities post-conflict, the current climate calls for reparations towards Sudan for humanitarian crises stemming from the UAE’s actions. Thus, bridging differences between Egypt’s and the UAE’s visions may enable necessary mediation for peace in Sudan.

A cooperative U.S. diplomatic influence could foster dialogue between Egypt and the UAE to address their conflicting positions. The path to restoration involves reconciliation efforts among regional players to avert a spiral into deeper civil conflict in Sudan, which may yield catastrophic consequences.

The conflict in Sudan, exacerbated by a civil war that erupted in April 2023, has led to deteriorating humanitarian conditions and extensive geopolitical implications in the region. Egypt has aligned with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), fearing instability along its borders, while the UAE supports the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seeking to exploit Sudan’s resources. Both Egypt and the UAE, despite their usual partnerships, are now engaged in a complex rivalry that complicates stabilization efforts in Sudan. Additionally, the regional implications extend to water security concerns for Egypt, particularly in context with Ethiopia and the Nile Basin. The struggle for power in Sudan mirrors broader issues of governance, territorial integrity, and national security in the Horn of Africa, necessitating understanding the roles of both Egypt and the UAE in shaping Sudan’s future.

In conclusion, the diverging interests of Egypt and the UAE in Sudan reveal an intricate balance of power that jeopardizes regional stability. As Egypt stands as a supporter of its army for state stability, the UAE’s resource-focused approach through the RSF complicates the landscape further. A potential dialogue facilitated by international actors like the U.S. could provide an essential opportunity for peace—creating a foundation for recovery and long-term stability in Sudan amid its current turmoil.

Original Source: responsiblestatecraft.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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