Sudan denies UAE claims of diplomatic attack, shifts blame to rival forces

Sudan’s military government has fiercely denied allegations from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that its forces bombed the residence of the UAE ambassador in Khartoum.

The UAE, earlier this week, condemned the attack, calling it a “heinous” and “flagrant violation” of international law, accusing a Sudanese military aircraft of being responsible for the strike.

Sudan’s military, however, pointed the finger squarely at the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), its fierce rival in a brutal conflict that has raged since April 2023. In a statement aimed at deflecting blame, the army declared, “It does not target the headquarters of diplomatic missions, United Nations agencies or voluntary organisations,” implying that RSF’s alleged lawlessness was the real culprit behind the destruction.

“The one that carries out these heinous and cowardly actions is the terrorist, rebel militia (RSF)… supported in committing all this by countries known to the world,” the military’s statement read, in a thinly veiled reference to the UAE. This accusation isn’t new; Khartoum has long claimed that the Gulf state has supported the RSF with weapons and financial aid, fueling the deadly conflict that has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions.

The UAE has consistently denied any involvement in supporting the RSF, maintaining that its efforts in Sudan focus solely on humanitarian aid and the de-escalation of violence. “This is disinformation,” the UAE has said in response to the accusations, further describing the attack on its diplomatic post as a direct violation of international norms and an act that demanded accountability.

Despite the back-and-forth, independent observers, including UN sanctions monitors, have found Sudan’s accusations credible. The allegations have surfaced at a critical juncture, with Sudan’s government forces launching a renewed offensive aimed at retaking the capital from the RSF, who have controlled vast parts of Khartoum for over a year.

With heavy fighting once again gripping the city, and more than half of Sudan’s population requiring humanitarian assistance, the situation on the ground remains dire. The UN has warned that famine is imminent, while millions have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety.

As the military and RSF continue their bitter struggle for power, diplomatic fallout between Khartoum and the UAE could further complicate the already devastating conflict. The world watches closely as Sudan’s fate hangs in the balance.