Fri Dec 13 20:58:27 UTC 2024: ## Turkey Offers Mediation as Sudan Accuses UAE of Arming Rebel Group

**Khartoum/Ankara** – Amidst the ongoing conflict in Sudan, the Sudanese army has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of supplying weapons to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, escalating tensions in the region. This accusation comes as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered to mediate between Sudan and the UAE to resolve the dispute.

The Sudanese army, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the Sudan Sovereign Council, claims the UAE’s actions are prolonging the devastating war that has ravaged the country since April 2023. The UAE has denied these allegations, countering that the Sudanese army is unwilling to negotiate a peaceful settlement.

Following a phone call with General al-Burhan on Friday, President Erdogan proposed Turkey’s mediation services, drawing parallels to its successful mediation efforts between Somalia and Ethiopia. A statement from the Turkish presidency highlighted Turkey’s commitment to Sudan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, emphasizing its opposition to foreign intervention.

General al-Burhan welcomed Turkey’s offer, expressing confidence in Turkey’s support for the Sudanese people and calling for increased Turkish investment in the war-torn nation.

The conflict has triggered a humanitarian crisis of immense proportions, forcing over 13 million people to flee their homes. Around 25 million Sudanese face acute food shortages, with famine already declared in Zam Zam camp in western Darfur. While the World Food Programme (WFP) reports some progress in aid delivery, ongoing fighting, particularly in el-Fasher, continues to hamper relief efforts. The WFP reached approximately 2.6 million people this month, but officials stress the need for significantly increased international support. The situation remains critical, with the conflict showing no signs of immediate resolution.

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