UAE Denounces Sudanese Armed Forces’ Disinformation Campaign Regarding UN Report
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has vehemently condemned the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) for what it terms a deliberate "disinformation campaign" surrounding a recent report by the UN Panel of Experts on Sudan. The UAE’s condemnation stems from the SAF’s alleged misrepresentation of the report’s findings, including publicizing confidential information, selectively quoting excerpts out of context, and distorting the report’s overall message even before its official release. This follows a previous rejection by the UAE of allegations leveled by the SAF following a UN Security Council report that exonerated the UAE of any wrongdoing. Adding further fuel to the fire, UAE authorities recently intercepted an attempt to smuggle weapons and military equipment destined for the SAF through a UAE airport.
The UAE’s strong rebuke was delivered in a letter to the UN Security Council penned by Mohamed Abushahab, the UAE’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations. The letter categorically denies any support for either the SAF or the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Sudanese conflict, which erupted in April 2023. Instead, the UAE accuses the SAF representative of exploiting international platforms, including the Security Council, to propagate a biased narrative that favors the SAF’s position. This maneuver, the UAE argues, is a calculated tactic to deflect global attention from the devastating humanitarian crisis engulfing Sudan and the grave breaches of international law committed by both warring factions.
The UAE’s letter underscores its unwavering commitment to humanitarian principles and criticizes both the SAF and RSF for impeding the delivery of essential aid and violating international humanitarian law. It emphasizes that no party to the conflict has the right to obstruct life-saving assistance. The UAE further highlighted its long-standing history of supporting the Sudanese people, detailing over $3.5 billion in aid provided over the past decade and exceeding $600 million in humanitarian assistance since the conflict began in 2023. This assistance has included 162 relief flights delivering over 12,000 tons of vital supplies such as food, medicine, and other relief materials.
The UAE’s accusations against the SAF come amidst an increasingly complex and volatile situation in Sudan. The conflict, now stretching into its third year, has resulted in widespread human suffering, massive displacement, and a near-total collapse of essential services. The UN and other international organizations have repeatedly called for an end to the fighting and for unrestricted access to deliver humanitarian aid. The UAE’s stance reflects the growing international frustration with the ongoing conflict and the obstruction of aid efforts.
The attempted smuggling of weapons and military equipment intercepted by the UAE adds another layer of complexity to the situation. While the intended recipient was identified as the SAF, the source of the weapons and the network involved in the smuggling attempt remain unclear. This incident underscores the challenges faced by regional and international actors in enforcing the arms embargo imposed on Sudan and preventing the further escalation of the conflict. Investigations are likely underway to determine the origin and intended purpose of the intercepted shipment.
The UAE’s condemnation of the SAF and its call for accountability represent a significant development in the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the Sudanese crisis. By publicly denouncing the SAF’s alleged disinformation campaign and highlighting the humanitarian consequences of the conflict, the UAE seeks to galvanize international pressure on both warring parties to cease hostilities and allow unimpeded access for humanitarian aid. The UAE’s firm stance also underscores its commitment to upholding international law and supporting a peaceful resolution to the Sudanese conflict. As the crisis persists, the international community continues to grapple with the challenges of providing aid, promoting stability, and seeking a lasting peace in the region.