U.S. lawmakers urge Biden to press UAE on Sudan conflict
September 22, 2024 (WASHINGTON) – Five U.S. lawmakers have called on President Joe Biden to address concerns about the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) alleged military support for Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during his upcoming meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Monday.
In a letter to the White House, Representatives Pramila Jayapal, Barbara Lee, Ilhan Omar, Daniel Kildee, and Sara Jacobs expressed their concerns about the UAE’s reported involvement in Sudan’s conflict, which has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis with over 10 million people displaced and more than 25 million in need of urgent food aid.
The lawmakers commended President Biden’s leadership on the Sudan crisis but emphasized the need for U.S. partnerships to reflect shared values and the vision of a democratic Sudan. They urged the President to use his talks with Sheikh Mohammed to push to end the UAE’s alleged support for the RSF and reaffirm a joint commitment to peace and stability in Sudan.
The RSF has been accused of committing war crimes, crimes against humanity, and ethnic cleansing in the conflict, which erupted in April 2023. The lawmakers highlighted reports, including one from a United Nations panel of experts, linking UAE arms and equipment to the RSF, which has reportedly shifted the balance of power in the conflict. Amnesty International has also identified Emirati armoured vehicles in the hands of the RSF.
While acknowledging the UAE’s importance as a U.S. ally in regional security, the lawmakers argued that its alleged support for the RSF contradicts U.S.-led international efforts to end the violence in Sudan.
They voiced concern that the UAE’s actions undermine the Biden administration’s efforts to end hostilities, protect civilians, and deliver humanitarian assistance, for which the U.S. has provided over $1.6 billion in aid to Sudan in the past two years.
This call for action coincides with a New York Times report alleging that the UAE has been secretly funnelling weapons, including advanced Chinese-made drones, to the RSF. The report cites American officials and internal diplomatic memos as evidence of the UAE’s clandestine activities.