Middle Eastern Monarchies and Their Interests in Sudan’s Civil War

The ongoing civil war in Sudan has drawn in external actors like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who, despite denying direct involvement, provide military and financial support. Influenced by a mix of internal and external factors, including regional power dynamics, these Gulf monarchies are looking to expand their influence amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The conflict is unlikely to resolve easily due to entrenched ideological divides and dependencies on foreign assistance.

The civil war in Sudan, initiated in April 2023, has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis and drawn in various external actors, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The conflict primarily involves the Sudanese Armed Forces opposing the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, with multiple countries choosing sides, including Chad, Egypt, Iran, Russia, and others offering support, particularly financial and military. Political factors within Sudan were central to the war, but external influences from Gulf monarchies cannot be overlooked.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been involved in Sudan’s political landscape since its independence in 1956. Their relationship has deepened over centuries due to geographical proximity and shared Islamic ties. The UAE has recently increased its financial investments in Sudan, particularly after the Arab uprisings, while Saudi Arabia focused on regional alliances, culminating in Sudan contributing troops to Saudi-led efforts in Yemen from 2015.

Since the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir in 2019, both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have sought to influence Sudan’s future while supporting distinct factions. Saudi Arabia, in alliance with Egypt, has favored army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, whereas the UAE has backed paramilitary leader Mohamed Dagalo, contributing to a power struggle influenced by external support rather than solely internal dynamics.

The recent research indicates two pivotal reasons for the Gulf states’ interest in Sudan: alterations in regional power structures following the Arab Spring and the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa in addressing conflicts, political instability, and food security. The geographical location of Sudan makes it a key player in facilitating connections between the Sahel and Red Sea regions, further heightening its geopolitical significance.

Currently, conflict resolution in Sudan appears increasingly elusive due to steadfast beliefs among the factions that victory hinges on defeating the other. The geopolitical landscape favors prolonged hostilities, complicating peace negotiations as both sides continue to receive external backing. As rival power centers emerge, it is likely that divisions within Sudan will deepen.

In summary, the involvement of Saudi Arabia and the UAE in Sudan’s civil war is driven by historical ties, strategic interests, and a response to regional power dynamics. The conflict’s complexities are exacerbated by the factions’ reliance on external support, making a peaceful resolution challenging. With growing territorial divisions, the future of Sudan remains uncertain as both Gulf monarchies continue to vie for influence in the region.

Original Source: theconversation.com