Sudan has officially severed diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), escalating a geopolitical rift fueled by accusations that the Gulf nation is backing Sudan’s rival faction in its ongoing civil war. The announcement was made by Sudanese Defence Minister Yassin Ibrahim, who claimed the UAE is supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militarily, financially, and politically, in what he described as a “proxy war” strategy.
This decision follows a surge in RSF attacks, including recent drone strikes on Port Sudan—a coastal city that has until now served as a stronghold for the Sudanese government and a refuge for civilians. The strikes targeted vital infrastructure and deepened fears about the widening scope of the conflict. In response, Sudan has ordered the closure of its diplomatic missions in the UAE and recalled its ambassador. UAE officials have strongly denied any involvement, rejecting all allegations of support for the RSF. Despite this, Sudanese officials maintain that the UAE is facilitating the supply of arms and funding to the RSF, either directly or through third-party channels.
The RSF has not issued a formal statement regarding the Port Sudan attacks. However, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have explicitly blamed the group for the drone strikes and broader destabilization efforts. The civil war, which began in April 2023 following a failed power-sharing agreement between the SAF and the RSF, has since devolved into a protracted and brutal conflict. The war has killed more than 13,000 people and displaced over 8 million, according to the United Nations. Efforts to hold international actors accountable have faced hurdles. Last month, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) dismissed a Sudanese case accusing the UAE of complicity in genocide, citing procedural issues and insufficient evidence under its jurisdictional standards.
In contrast to Sudan’s accusations, the UAE’s deputy assistant minister for political affairs has urged international engagement to end the war. Speaking at a press conference, the official called for immediate ceasefire negotiations and expanded humanitarian assistance, stressing the importance of focusing on peace and the wellbeing of the Sudanese population. Both the SAF and RSF have been accused of war crimes by human rights organizations, including extrajudicial killings, mass displacements, and the use of child soldiers. The conflict has also drawn in regional and international actors, further complicating prospects for peace.
