Sat Mar 08 10:48:10 UTC 2025: ## Sudan Accuses UAE of Genocide Complicity in International Court Filing

**The Hague, Netherlands** – Sudan has formally accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of complicity in genocide in the ongoing Sudanese civil war, filing a case with the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The accusation centers on alleged UAE support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group battling the Sudanese army.

The UAE vehemently denies the allegations, dismissing the case as a publicity stunt. However, Sudan’s filing shines a spotlight on the UAE’s extensive involvement in Sudan, a country rich in natural resources including gold, gas, and agricultural land, strategically located near key shipping routes.

The UAE’s interests in Sudan extend beyond resource acquisition, according to experts. Andreas Krieg, a Middle East security specialist at King’s College London, points to the UAE’s pursuit of political influence in a strategically important region. Hamid Khalafallah, a Sudan researcher, adds that the UAE, lacking in natural resources itself, seeks to exploit Sudan’s wealth, particularly its gold reserves, a sector largely controlled by RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, known as Hemeti. A report by Swissaid estimated that 66.5% of African gold exports to the UAE in 2022 were smuggled.

The UAE’s relationship with the RSF dates back to the Yemen war, where both forces fought alongside Saudi Arabia. However, a rift between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi has seen the UAE allegedly backing Daglo, challenging Saudi objectives. This support, experts suggest, is also driven by an ideological alignment, with both the UAE and RSF seeking to counter the Muslim Brotherhood.

The accusation of genocide, previously leveled by the US in January, stems from the RSF’s alleged targeting of specific ethnic groups. Further fueling the allegations, two US lawmakers accused the UAE of violating pledges to halt military aid to the RSF. Experts claim the RSF has received significant support from the UAE, including arms deliveries via Chad.

While the ICJ’s ruling will be legally binding, its enforceability remains a challenge. Nevertheless, the case is expected to damage the UAE’s international reputation, reinforcing concerns about its destabilizing role in Africa. However, the UAE’s substantial financial and political power is likely to limit any significant repercussions. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has already claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 12 million people.

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