Cairo Strengthens Support for Sudan Government Following Egyptian Captives’ Release
Cairo is enhancing its support for Sudan’s government after the release of nine Egyptian captives held by the RSF. Egypt’s diplomatic efforts include seeking assistance from Arab and Gulf nations while rejecting any attempts at a rival Sudanese government. The stability of Sudan is viewed as crucial for Egypt’s national security amid fears of further conflict and humanitarian crises.
Cairo is actively mobilizing support for the Sudanese government amid its conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) following the successful rescue of Egyptian nationals held captive by the group. Reports from Thursday indicate that nine Egyptians were freed due to a coordinated effort between the Egyptian and Sudanese military, returning them to their homeland after being detained for months.
According to Daily News Egypt, the individuals released had been engaged in the household goods trade in Khartoum. The Al-Qahera News channel highlighted that their release was part of extensive behind-the-scenes negotiations aligned with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s directive to ensure their safe return home.
The Egyptian nationals found themselves entrapped in escalating violence since the onset of hostilities between the Sudanese army and the RSF in April 2023. The RSF’s control expanded over parts of Khartoum, leading to the confiscation of properties from both Sudanese citizens and expatriates, as reported by Daily News Egypt.
One freed captive, Emad Moawad, recounted how the RSF had wrongfully accused them of espionage. He stated, “Sixty-five days later, the RSF raided our house and held us captive for over 19 months,” providing insight into their harrowing experience.
Following these developments, The New Arab reported on efforts by Egypt to gather support from Arab and Gulf nations for the Sudanese government. This initiative stems from Cairo’s firm stance against any efforts to create a rival Sudanese government or actions threatening Sudan’s sovereignty.
Egyptian officials are engaging with both Arab and African counterparts to unify Sudanese political factions and avert a humanitarian collapse in the conflict-ridden nation. Unnamed sources state that Cairo maintains engagement with neighboring countries, including Chad and South Sudan, alongside Gulf entities like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to fortify the Sudanese government.
The stability of Sudan is paramount for Egypt’s national security, prompting direct communication with the African Union and the United Nations to seek a political resolution. Concerns mount over the potential fracturing of Sudan into rival factions, which may lead to increased refugee flows and destabilization in the vital Nile Basin region.
However, the Kenyan government’s prior support for the RSF has faced backlash after hosting rebel leaders to draft a transitional constitution that could result in a parallel government in rebel-controlled areas, including parts of Khartoum and Darfur. The RSF has been accused of committing crimes against humanity amid the ongoing conflict, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Furthermore, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) recently reported that Sudan has initiated a case against the UAE, alleging the Gulf state’s complicity in genocide by supporting the RSF.
In summary, Cairo’s efforts to reinforce the Sudanese government come in the wake of the release of Egyptian nationals previously held captive by the RSF. Amid rising tensions and a humanitarian crisis in Sudan, Egypt is intensifying diplomatic efforts to unify political factions. Furthermore, concerns regarding regional stability and Sudan’s potential disintegration underline the significance of these initiatives. As the situation continues to evolve, international legal actions also emerge, highlighting the complexities of the conflict.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
