Sudan has initiated legal proceedings against the United Arab Emirates at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), alleging that the UAE violated the 1948 Genocide Convention. The charges stem from accusations that the UAE supported the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in committing genocidal acts against the non-Arab Masalit tribe in West Darfur in 2023. This case marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict within Sudan, where ethnic violence has intensified.
The RSF, alongside allied Arab militias, has been linked to severe ethnic-based attacks in Darfur, which the United States classified as genocide earlier this year. Sudan claims that these acts were "perpetrated and enabled by the direct support given to the rebel RSF militia and related militia groups by the United Arab Emirates," as stated by the ICJ. The UAE, however, firmly denies any support for the RSF and labels the case as a "cynical publicity stunt" aimed at diverting attention from the Sudanese Armed Forces' (SAF) alleged complicity in widespread atrocities.
The ICJ is set to deliberate on Sudan's request for emergency measures to prevent further genocidal acts. While both Sudan and the UAE are signatories of the Genocide Convention, this legal battle could take years before a final ruling is issued. The UAE plans to seek an immediate dismissal of the case, asserting that it lacks "any legal or factual basis."
The conflict between the RSF and the Sudanese army has wreaked havoc across Sudan, leading to severe humanitarian crises marked by hunger and disease. In addition, foreign powers have been drawn into the strife, complicating efforts for resolution. The RSF and its allied political groups are reportedly establishing a parallel government in opposition to the army-aligned administration.
Despite these allegations, the UAE maintains its commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The UAE has "consistently called for an immediate ceasefire," emphasizing its dedication to resolving the conflict peacefully.
