WASHINGTON, September 22, 2024 – Five U.S. lawmakers have called on President Joe Biden to address concerns about the United Arab Emirates (UAE)’s alleged military support for Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during his planned meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Monday.
In a letter to the White House, Reps. Pramila Jayapal, Barbara Lee, Ilhan Omar, Daniel Kildee and Sara Jacobs expressed concern about reports of the UAE’s involvement in the conflict in Sudan, which has caused a devastating humanitarian crisis that has displaced more than 10 million people and left more than 25 million in need of emergency food aid.
The lawmakers praised President Biden’s leadership during the Sudanese crisis, but stressed that any partnership with the U.S. must reflect shared values and a vision for a democratic Sudan. They called on the president to use his meeting with Sheikh Mohammed to end the UAE’s alleged support for the RSF and reaffirm their joint commitment to peace and stability in Sudan.
The RSF has been accused of committing war crimes, crimes against humanity and ethnic cleansing in the conflict that erupted in April 2023. The lawmakers highlighted reports, including one from a UN panel of experts, that linked UAE weapons and equipment to the RSF, which they say has reportedly shifted the balance of power in the conflict. Amnesty International also found that the RSF possesses UAE armored vehicles.
While acknowledging the UAE’s importance as a U.S. ally in regional security, the lawmakers argued that the country’s alleged support for the RSF is inconsistent with U.S.-led international efforts to end the violence in Sudan.
They expressed concern that the UAE’s actions undermine the Biden administration’s efforts to end hostilities, protect civilians and provide humanitarian assistance. The United States has provided more than $1.6 billion in aid to Sudan over the past two years.
The call for action coincides with a New York Times report that the UAE has been secretly sending weapons to the RSF, including advanced Chinese-made drones, citing U.S. officials and internal diplomatic memos as evidence of the UAE’s covert activities.