Lt-Gen Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, leader of the RSF, has accused Egypt of targeting his troops amidst the ongoing conflict with the SAF in Sudan, which has already resulted in thousands of deaths and millions displaced. Hemedti claims Egypt supports the Sudanese military, allegations that Cairo has denied, asserting its goal of mediating peace. Meanwhile, as the humanitarian crisis deepens, international responses remain challenged amidst growing violence and accusations.
In a significant escalation of accusations amid Sudan’s ongoing conflict, Lt-Gen Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, commonly referred to as “Hemedti,” leader of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has alleged that Egypt has conducted airstrikes targeting his troops. Since the onset of hostilities between the RSF and the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) in April 2023, which has resulted in approximately 18,000 fatalities and displacements exceeding 11 million individuals, this new allegation could implicate Cairo in this protracted war. While the RSF has faced accusations from the SAF of receiving military assistance from the United Arab Emirates, Hemedti’s latest claims suggest that Egypt has been providing support to the Sudanese military, including troop training and drone supplies to facilitate their recent successes on the battlefield. In a recorded address, Hemedti expressed frustration at the persistence of the SAF and stated, “We have been silent for a long time and hoped they would awaken, but they are persistent in the battle.” The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, however, vehemently denied these accusations, labeling them as unfounded and asserting that Egypt is committed to terminating the hostilities and safeguarding Sudanese civilians. The ministry highlighted that these allegations emerge amid Egypt’s significant efforts to stabilize the situation and facilitate humanitarian relief for war-affected populations. “These allegations come amidst Egypt’s earnest efforts to stop the war, protect civilians, and promote international response to humanitarian relief plans for those affected by the ongoing war in brotherly Sudan,” stated the Egyptian government. Historically, Egypt has aligned with the Sudanese military during periods of stability. Before the conflict escalated, Egyptian military personnel were stationed in northern Sudan and found themselves temporarily detained by the RSF. In recent efforts to mediate a ceasefire, Egypt has faced challenges, indicating a complex arrangement amid the turbulence. Simultaneously, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s diplomatic endeavors continue, as he embarks on an official visit to Eritrea to bolster bilateral relations and discuss regional stability, including the Sudan conflict. Following a previous meeting with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki to strategize support for stability in the Horn of Africa, Sisi’s visit underscores Egypt’s commitment to addressing regional security concerns. The accusations from Hemedti have provoked intense scrutiny both within Sudan and internationally, further complicating the narrative surrounding the conflict. Sudanese Finance Minister Jibrili Ibrahim responded forcefully to Hemedti’s speech, suggesting it signals the collapse of the RSF’s position and a diversion from accountability for the group’s actions: “The speech of the Rapid Support Forces commander is practically a eulogy for his adventure in Sudan, an announcement of his defeat, and an attempt to absolve himself from the crimes of his forces.” As the humanitarian crisis in Sudan deepens, the war has displaced millions and devastated infrastructure, leaving the population grappling with hunger and disease. Access to humanitarian assistance remains severely restricted, despite ongoing international efforts. Recent ceasefire negotiations facilitated by the US yielded minimal results, exacerbating concerns regarding the international community’s capacity to effectively intervene in the crisis. As violence escalates and mutual accusations among the warring parties continue, observers express apprehension regarding the potential for greater destabilization and fragmentation of Sudan. The deteriorating humanitarian situation raises critical questions about the future of this conflict-ridden nation, while hopes for diplomatic resolutions persist.
The conflict in Sudan has intensified since April 2023, pitting the RSF against the SAF, culminating in widespread violence and humanitarian crises. Hemedti’s allegations towards Egypt introduced a new layer to the conflict’s dynamics, as accusations of foreign involvement and support escalate amid the struggle for power. Historically, Egypt has maintained relations with the Sudanese military, fostering concerns about regional implications as tensions rise.
The accusations by Lt-Gen Hemedti against Egypt highlight escalating complexities in the Sudan conflict, intertwining regional diplomacy with internal strife. The humanitarian crisis worsens, prompting urgent calls for intervention, yet as the conflict drags on, the prospects for resolution appear increasingly bleak. International actors must navigate the delicate situation to avert further degradation of stability in Sudan and the broader region.
Original Source: www.theeastafrican.co.ke
