Tensions between Sudan’s military and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have intensified, with Sudanese military publicly accusing the UAE of interfering in the country’s civil war, leading to a contentious exchange between the two nations.
The conflict erupted in mid-April, pitting Sudan’s army against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in a devastating toll of over 12,000 fatalities and displacing millions.
General Yasser al-Atta, second-in-command to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, openly criticized the UAE in November, labeling it a “mafia state” for allegedly supporting RSF and its leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Al-Atta further alleged that the UAE facilitated weapon transfers through Chad, Uganda, and the Central African Republic, aided by the Wagner Group, Russian mercenaries previously active in Bangui.
Despite Sudan’s army previously exercising caution in diplomatic relations, it has now made bold accusations public, leading to the expulsion of 15 UAE diplomats by Sudan’s foreign ministry.
The UAE has denied any involvement in the conflict, claiming impartiality,
Rumors of UAE involvement escalated in November when pro-army demonstrators in Port Sudan demanded the expulsion of the Emirati ambassador. Subsequently, Sudanese diplomats were expelled from the UAE, prompting Sudan’s foreign ministry to declare 15 UAE diplomats persona non grata, demanding their swift departure from Sudan.
Analysts view Sudan’s move as an act of desperation amid dwindling options in the conflict. While neither side has gained a decisive military advantage, RSF’s control extends across Khartoum, Darfur, and encroaches further south.
The situation continues to evolve, with implications for the ongoing conflict in Sudan and the wider geopolitical landscape.
