In a dramatic escalation of diplomatic tensions, Sudan has officially severed its diplomatic ties with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), citing accusations of military support for the Rapid Support Forces (FSR), a paramilitary group engaged in conflict against the national army. This decision, announced on May 6, 2025, by Sudanese head of state Abdel Fattah al-Burhane, marks a significant turning point in the ongoing crisis that has plagued Sudan for over two years.
The Sudanese Security and Defense Council has labeled the UAE as an "aggressor state," condemning what they describe as Abu Dhabi's role in exacerbating the conflict that has devastated the nation. In a statement, Sudanese authorities accused the UAE of providing military and logistical support to the FSR, which has been embroiled in fierce battles against the national army in various regions, particularly in Darfur.
According to the Sudanese Minister of Defense, Yassin Ibrahim, the world has been witness to the "crime of aggression" committed by the UAE against Sudan's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He stated, "The world has been following for more than two years the crime of aggression against the sovereignty of Sudan, its territorial integrity, and the security of its citizens, committed by the United Arab Emirates via their local affiliate." This statement reflects the growing frustration within Sudan regarding foreign involvement in its internal conflicts.
Compounding the situation, the Sudanese government has reported ongoing drone strikes in Port Sudan, the provisional seat of the government, targeting critical infrastructure such as airports, military bases, and fuel depots. These strikes, attributed to the FSR, have intensified over the past three days, with local reports detailing significant destruction and chaos in the city. Ibrahim has vowed that Sudan will respond to this aggression by all necessary means to preserve the country's sovereignty.
In a televised address, General al-Burhane reaffirmed his commitment to defeating the FSR and those who support them, promising to take decisive action against the militia. The backdrop of this escalation includes a recent ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which dismissed Sudan's complaint accusing the UAE of complicity in genocide related to its support for the FSR. This decision has further strained relations, as Sudan's allegations were deemed unfounded by the court.
The UAE has consistently denied any involvement in the conflict, and following the ICJ's ruling, they welcomed the court's decision, asserting their innocence in the ongoing crisis. Nevertheless, Sudan's government has maintained its stance, accusing the Emirates of supplying sophisticated strategic weapons to the FSR, which has turned against the Sudanese military under the leadership of General Mohamed Hamdane Daglo since April 2023.
The recent drone attacks have drawn international attention, with reports of smoke rising over Port Sudan, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation as civilians flee the violence. The Sudanese government has reported that these attacks have targeted essential facilities, including oil installations and power stations, leading to widespread disruption and suffering among the population.
In light of these developments, the Sudanese government has taken the step of recalling its diplomatic personnel from Abu Dhabi, signaling a complete breakdown in relations. The announcement of this diplomatic severance comes amidst a backdrop of escalating violence and instability, raising concerns about the potential for further conflict in the region.
As tensions continue to mount, the international community watches closely, with many questioning the implications of this diplomatic rupture for regional stability and humanitarian efforts in Sudan. The situation remains fluid, and the potential for further escalation looms large as both sides prepare for what could be a protracted and bloody confrontation.
This latest chapter in Sudan's ongoing struggle for stability reflects a broader pattern of geopolitical maneuvering in the region, where foreign powers often play a significant role in local conflicts. The ramifications of the UAE's alleged involvement and Sudan's response could have far-reaching consequences not only for the two nations involved but also for the broader geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and North Africa.
With the international community increasingly aware of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, calls for diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution are mounting. However, the road ahead appears fraught with challenges as both Sudan and the UAE navigate the complexities of their strained relationship.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how Sudan will respond to the ongoing violence and whether diplomatic channels can be reopened to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The stakes are high, and the need for a concerted international effort to address the crisis has never been more urgent.
