The UAE has ceased arms supplies to Sudan’s RSF following U.S. objections, as stated by the White House. This comes amid legislative efforts by Senator Chris Van Hollen, who seeks to block U.S. arms sales to the UAE until compliance can be verified. The UAE assured that it is not supplying weapons and will stop going forward, with an assessment due by January 17, 2025.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has halted arms supplies to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) following strong objections raised by the United States. This decision was communicated to U.S. senators by the White House, amidst ongoing legislative efforts led by Senator Chris Van Hollen, who had proposed measures to block U.S. arms sales to the UAE until it could be confirmed that they were not aiding the RSF. In a letter from Brett McGurk, White House Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, it was stated that the UAE has assured U.S. officials that it currently is not supplying weapons to the RSF and will not do so in the future. McGurk also committed to delivering an updated report on the UAE’s adherence to these assurances by January 17, 2025.
The situation surrounding the UAE’s involvement with the RSF has been contentious, with accusations from both the Sudanese army and UN experts alleging that the UAE has previously provided weapons and support to the paramilitary group, which has been embroiled in conflict with the Sudanese military for over 18 months. In light of these allegations, the UAE has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Clinton Walsh, Chief Africa Correspondent for The New York Times, noted on social media that this situation may represent an implicit acknowledgment from the UAE of past support, contradicting their previous firm denials.
This development aligns with U.S. legal requirements that necessitate congressional review for significant arms dealings, offering senators the ability to instigate resolutions to disapprove such transactions. However, this same authority does not extend to House members, as any resolution to block arms sales must triumph in both congressional chambers and may face presidential veto outcomes.
The issue of the UAE’s purported arms supply to Sudan’s RSF has been a topic of scrutiny and diplomatic tension between the United States and the UAE. The RSF has been actively involved in conflicts throughout Sudan, raising international concerns over human rights and regional stability. Active legislation by U.S. lawmakers illustrates concerns surrounding the UAE’s influence and actions in the region, particularly in relation to U.S. foreign policy objectives. The UAE’s denial of the allegations and its recent commitments signify a significant shift aiming to ease tensions with U.S. lawmakers and wariness about arms proliferation.
In conclusion, the UAE’s recent suspension of arms deliveries to the RSF marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-UAE relations concerning arms transactions in Sudan. With increasing scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and the commitment by the UAE to cease any further transfers, this scenario reflects ongoing efforts to address concerns regarding regional conflicts and the perceived role of foreign support in exacerbating these issues. The situation will continue to evolve, especially with an upcoming assessment scheduled by the White House.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
