UAE Halts Arms Supply to Sudan’s RSF Amid U.S. Legislative Pressure
The United Arab Emirates has halted arms supply to Sudan’s RSF after U.S. intervention. This decision follows legislation introduced by Senator Chris Van Hollen aimed at ensuring U.S. arms do not support the RSF. The UAE reaffirmed its commitment by stating that it will not transfer weapons to the RSF in the future, with compliance to be reviewed by January 17, 2025.
On December 19, 2024, the White House announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has halted its supply of weapons to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, responding to concerns raised by the United States. This decision follows the introduction of legislation by Senator Chris Van Hollen on November 21, aimed at preventing U.S. arms sales to the UAE without verification that such munitions would not be transferred to the RSF. In a letter addressed to Senator Van Hollen, Brett McGurk, the White House Coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, assured that the UAE commits to not transferring weapons to the RSF, and promised an assessment of their compliance by January 17.
The cessation of arms supply from the UAE to the RSF arises amidst allegations of the UAE’s support for the paramilitary group, involved in ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army for over a year and a half. Previous claims by the Sudanese army and United Nations experts accused the UAE of arming the RSF, allegations that the UAE has consistently denied. The recent developments underscore a significant shift in the UAE’s stance in light of U.S. legislative pressure to ensure that American arms do not contribute to the conflict in Sudan.
In summary, the UAE’s decision to terminate arms supplies to the RSF marks a pivotal response to U.S. appeals and legislative actions. The situation highlights the complexities of international arms sales and the need for accountability in the conflict in Sudan. The further evaluation of the UAE’s compliance will be pivotal in determining the future of U.S.-UAE arms relations and their implications for regional stability.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
