Despite mounting local and international evidence pointing to the involvement of the United Arab Emirates in the bloody conflict in Sudan, the UAE continues to deny any role in the fighting, responding to such allegations with a mix of denials and justifications. The official(Gulf News) newspaper yesterday reiterated the UAE’s denial of any role in the conflict and refuted accusations of financing and supporting the infamous Janjaweed militias, also known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have been accused of widespread deadly atrocities.
The paper further announced that the UAE has donated $3.9 billion to aid humanitarian efforts in Sudan, emphasizing that these contributions reflect the country’s commitment to building cooperative and trusting relations with Sudan and its people. It described international and Sudanese reports accusing the UAE of involvement as “lies aimed at tarnishing the UAE’s image and reputation,” citing the International Court of Justice ruling on the case filed by Sudan against the UAE, though the court had dismissed Sudan’s claim due to procedural technicalities rather than substantive validity of the allegations.
The newspaper detailed timelines and the volume of humanitarian aid the UAE has provided to Sudan over recent years, highlighting its material and humanitarian support and asserting that such actions contradict any allegations of complicity in violence or militia financing.
UAE’s Denial: Propaganda or Reality? Is Money Enough to Clear the Name?
While the UAE repeatedly denies any involvement in the conflict, political analysts and observers question whether such denials suffice in light of growing evidence. Analysts at the Al-Yurae Research Center consider the UAE’s desperate disavowal a “public relations shield” designed to mitigate international condemnation as the extent of crimes linked to its secretly backed militias comes to light.
These analysts point out that although the UAE is one of the world’s wealthiest countries and has provided substantial donations, money alone is unlikely to compensate for the human, social, and infrastructural damage allegedly caused by its support to militias responsible for what human rights organizations describe as horrific atrocities — including the deaths of tens of thousands of civilians, the displacement of millions, and decades-long extraction of Sudan’s riches.
International Legal Perspective
A professor of international law and member of the Human Rights Defense Organization, stated, “International law obligates states not to interfere in the internal conflicts of other countries, especially when armed groups supported commit serious violations. If UAE’s involvement in backing such militias is proven, it could face international legal accountability, including prosecution of leaders at international tribunals such as the International Criminal Court.”
He added, “The International Court of Justice ruling in Sudan’s case against the UAE does not negate other existing evidence of involvement; the judgment was dismissed on procedural grounds, not on merits. Therefore, comprehensive and transparent investigations are essential to establish responsibility.”
From a human rights angle, Sudanese activist remarked, “The UAE’s disregard for allegations and insistence on repudiation delays justice and prolongs suffering in Sudan. Money alone cannot wash away the blood of thousands nor restore the homes destroyed.”
Humanitarian Shock: Mass Displacement and Widespread Destruction
On the ground, the ongoing fighting has resulted in tens of thousands of civilian deaths and millions displaced internally and externally. Massive numbers of displaced people endure dire conditions accentuated by collapsed essential services and destroyed infrastructure.
Ahmed, a displaced farmer from Bbanosa recounted: “We had no choice but to leave everything behind. The bombs came day and night. We walked for days with our children, fleeing to safety, but there is no peace. We live now in overcrowded camps, with little food or medicine.”
Fatima, a mother of five, said: “The town where we lived is no more; schools, clinics, and markets are gone. My children miss their home, but we cannot return so long as the fighting continues.”
Numerous reports from international and UN relief organizations detail civilians living amid shocking shortages of food, shelter, and medical care, with growing internally displaced populations underscoring the depth of the humanitarian catastrophe.
The Imperative of Accountability and Resolution
The paramount challenge remains holding all parties accountable legally and ethically. Amid the UAE’s persistent denial, the international community must escalate calls for transparency and justice and commission independent investigations to prevent impunity.
Simultaneously, Sudan requires comprehensive international support focused on halting violence, rebuilding war-damaged infrastructure, protecting civilians, and enabling displaced populations to return home with dignity.
