Sudan accuses UAE of complicity in alleged genocide at World Court

March 6, 2025 (THE HAGUE) – Sudan filed a case against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on March 5, 2025, according to a complaint seen by Sudan Tribune. Sudan accused the UAE of complicity in alleged genocide against the Masalit ethnic group.

The complaint centres on the actions of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias, which Sudan alleges have committed acts of genocide, murder, theft, rape, forcible displacement and other human rights violations.

Sudan claims these acts were carried out with the direct support of the UAE, including the supply of weapons, artillery, ammunition, drones and other military equipment. Sudan further alleges the UAE sent its own agents and mercenaries to assist the RSF.

The complaint details the impact of the conflict, stating that violence has disrupted agricultural projects, factory production, and access to healthcare and education. Sudan alleges that the UAE’s support for the RSF has led to the deaths of thousands of civilians, the displacement of millions, and the widespread destruction of property.

Sudan’s case is based on Article 36, paragraph 1, of the ICJ Statute and Article IX of the Genocide Convention, to which both countries are signatories.

The UAE, however, made a reservation upon acceding to the Genocide Convention, seeking to exclude disputes under the Convention from the ICJ’s jurisdiction. Sudan argues this reservation is invalid as it is incompatible with the Convention’s object and purpose.

Alongside the lawsuit, Sudan has requested the ICJ impose provisional measures to protect the Masalit population. These include an order for the UAE to cease all support for the RSF and to take steps to prevent further acts of genocide. Sudan argues for the urgency of these measures, citing the ongoing nature of the alleged genocide and the risk of irreparable harm.

The ICJ, also known as the World Court, has acknowledged the urgency and will prioritize Sudan’s request for provisional measures.