THE HAGUE — Sudan has filed a formal case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention by financially and militarily supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group involved in Sudan’s ongoing brutal conflict. The UAE has swiftly rejected the allegations, labeling the case a “publicity stunt” and pledging to have it dismissed.
The Sudanese government claims that the UAE’s backing of the RSF, which is accused of horrific human rights abuses including genocide, murder, rape, and forced displacement, has directly contributed to atrocities against the Masalit people in Sudan’s war-torn regions. The UAE, however, countered that the case is merely an attempt to divert attention from the Sudanese military’s own role in the violence.
“The case lacks any legal or factual basis,” said a UAE statement, which also pointed out the Sudanese Armed Forces’ complicity in the war’s widespread destruction. The UAE called for an immediate dismissal of the case, insisting it has been working for peace and a ceasefire in the region.
Sudan is seeking urgent interim measures from the ICJ, including a demand for the UAE to prevent further killings and crimes against the Masalit people. The war, which erupted in mid-April 2023, has killed over 24,000 people and displaced millions, with many fleeing to neighboring countries. The conflict escalated from tensions between Sudan’s military and RSF and has since engulfed large parts of the country.
The legal battle comes on the heels of new revelations, including U.S. government-backed reports linking UAE aircraft to weapons shipments for the RSF. Despite ongoing denials from the UAE, these claims continue to fuel suspicions of the Gulf state’s involvement in Sudan’s bloody conflict.
As the ICJ case unfolds, all eyes are on whether the court will intervene to address one of Africa’s most devastating conflicts in recent history. The lengthy process of international legal proceedings will continue, with Sudan hoping for a breakthrough in its pursuit of justice.
