In a recent statement issued to the UN Security Council, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) vehemently refuted accusations of its involvement in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, dismissing them as “outright fabrications” and “mischaracterizations.”
The denial comes in response to claims made by the Sudanese representative alleging the discovery of Emirati passports and other purported evidence on the battlefield.
The controversy erupted when the Sudanese envoy asserted that Emirati passports were found amidst the conflict zone, implying Emirati interference.
However, the UAE countered these claims, asserting that the images presented were not authentic passports but rather scans or photocopies of outdated documents from different nationalities, some of which were expired.
“The four Emiratis mentioned in the allegations had previously visited Sudan for charitable and business purposes sanctioned by the Sudanese authorities,” the UAE statement clarified, branding the accusations as defamatory and reserving the right to pursue legal action.
Furthermore, the Sudanese representative alleged the discovery of phones bearing the Etisalat logo, insinuating UAE involvement due to the telecommunications company’s ties.
The UAE dismissed these allegations, stating that the phones in question were obsolete civilian models no longer in production, with outdated Etisalat markings predating the conflict.
The diplomatic rift between Sudan and the UAE deepened as Sudan accused the Emirates of supplying weapons to opposing factions in the conflict.
The UAE vehemently denied these claims, labeling them part of a disinformation campaign orchestrated by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The Emirates clarified that any previous military assistance provided to Sudan was done with official authorization and in good faith for defensive purposes.
Despite the escalating tensions, the UAE reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Sudanese people amidst the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the conflict.
The Emirates has established field hospitals near the Chad-Sudan border, pledging substantial humanitarian aid amounting to $200 million since April 2023.
In addition to humanitarian efforts, the UAE called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to engage in peaceful negotiations under the Jeddah talks process to achieve a civilian-led government.
The conflict in Sudan, which erupted in April last year between the Sudanese army and paramilitary forces over political transition issues, has resulted in widespread displacement and dire humanitarian conditions.
The UN estimates that nearly half of Sudan’s population requires urgent humanitarian assistance, with millions displaced and famine looming.
As tensions persist and allegations fly between the involved parties, international scrutiny mounts on the unfolding crisis in Sudan.
The UAE’s firm denial of involvement underscores the complexities and geopolitical stakes in the region, where competing interests and humanitarian imperatives collide amidst calls for peace and stability.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members