Diplomatic reports reveal the UAE is working to counter potential U.S. sanctions over allegations of supporting Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The move comes amid growing international scrutiny of Abu Dhabi’s role in the ongoing Sudanese conflict.
Accprding to Alwatan U.S. lawmakers have accused the UAE of supplying weapons to the RSF, which has been implicated in severe human rights violations during the Sudan civil war. In response, Emirati authorities have launched lobbying campaigns and allocated significant resources to prevent legislative actions that could harm their global standing.
Key U.S. officials, including Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Sara Jacobs, are leading efforts to halt arms sales to the UAE. They argue that Emirati weapons are fueling the conflict, perpetuating civilian suffering. Jacobs emphasized the need to cut the RSF’s supply chain to stabilize Sudan and end the devastation.
Recent investigations, including UN reports, allege the UAE has been using Chad as a transit hub for transferring military equipment to the RSF. Lawmakers continue to pressure the Biden administration for a comprehensive review of the UAE’s actions and stronger measures to hold Abu Dhabi accountable for its role in Sudan’s turmoil.
As tension grows, the UAE’s position as a major U.S. arms buyer faces increasing challenges, with calls for strict oversight and sanctions gaining momentum.