Cairo is strengthening its support for the Sudanese government following the release of nine Egyptian captives held by the RSF. The move comes after coordinated efforts between Egyptian and Sudanese forces. Egypt is also working to unite Arab and Gulf nations in support of Sudan amid concerns of political disintegration and humanitarian crisis arising from the ongoing conflict.
Cairo is enhancing its support for the Sudanese government amid ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This initiative follows the successful coordinated efforts between the Sudanese army and the Egyptian military, which led to the release of nine Egyptian nationals held captive by the RSF. These individuals, engaged in the household goods trade, had been residing in Khartoum prior to their detention.
According to sources from Daily News Egypt, the release of the Egyptians was the culmination of months of negotiation directed by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Reports from Al-Qahera News indicate that the captives were removed from conflict areas in central Khartoum and moved to Port Sudan before their safe return to Egypt.
The conflict, which began in April 2023, has seen many Egyptian nationals caught amidst escalating violence, especially those who chose to remain in Sudan to protect their businesses. Emad Moawad, one of the freed captives, recounted that the RSF wrongfully accused them of espionage for the Egyptian intelligence apparatus during their capture, which lasted over 19 months.
In light of the recent developments, Egypt is actively seeking to rally support from Arab and Gulf nations for the Sudanese government. The government of Egypt has firmly rejected any proposals for a parallel Sudanese government, believing such actions threaten the unity and sovereignty of Sudan.
Egyptian officials are reaching out to neighboring countries like Chad, South Sudan, and Kenya, as well as Gulf powers such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to strengthen the existing Sudanese government. The stability of Sudan is deemed crucial for Egypt’s national security, prompting talks with the African Union and the United Nations to facilitate a political resolution.
Concern is growing among Egyptian officials regarding the potential fragmentation within Sudan, which may lead to rival factions establishing distinct zones of influence. This division could result in another wave of refugees and threaten stability in the strategically significant Nile Basin region. Kenya has faced backlash for its perceived support of the RSF, having hosted Sudanese rebels previously.
Moreover, the humanitarian crisis stemming from this 20-month conflict has raised international alarm, with widespread accusations of atrocities. The International Court of Justice announced that Sudan has filed a case against the UAE, alleging complicity in genocide due to its support of the RSF during the ongoing conflict.
In conclusion, Cairo’s intensified support for the Sudanese government stems from the need to maintain regional stability given the ongoing conflict with the RSF. The release of Egyptian captives has prompted Egypt to seek cooperation from surrounding nations to foster unity among Sudanese factions and mitigate the dire humanitarian crisis. Egypt’s proactive stance is critical not only for its national security but also for the broader region’s stability, as it navigates complex diplomatic relationships amidst ongoing turmoil.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
