The Rapid Support Forces in Sudan have prohibited all exports to Egypt in retaliation for alleged Egyptian interference, notably air strikes against RSF forces, which Egypt denies. This ban, spearheaded by leader Hemedti, has raised significant concerns regarding the future of Sudan-Egypt relations and regional stability, as RSF officials threaten merchants defying the embargo and highlight the potential for escalated conflict.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, led by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, instituted a ban on all Sudanese exports to Egypt, citing concerns over what he perceives as Egyptian interference in Sudan’s internal matters. This announcement was made on a Saturday and follows Hemedti’s allegations that Egyptian forces had conducted air strikes against RSF positions, a claim which has been categorically denied by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. The enforcement of this export prohibition is limited to areas in Sudan controlled by the RSF. A prominent RSF member, Abu Shoutal, cautioned traders against any attempt to send goods to Egypt, asserting that those who defy this ban would face repercussions. “If the merchants send even one unit of their products, they will be punished. Our exports should be sent to all of our neighbors, except for Egypt,” he declared, further asserting that any vehicles attempting to cross into Egypt via the al-Dabba route would be treated as foes. Traditionally, Sudanese exports to Egypt consist of agricultural and livestock products, including peanuts, corn, sesame, gum Arabic, camels, and cattle, predominantly sourced from RSF-held territories like Darfur and Kordofan. Given that the RSF governs the border regions with Egypt where these exports are processed, this ban complicates trade considerably. Rasha Awad, a journalist and civil activist, remarked to Asharq Al-Awsat, that this prohibition represents a paradigm shift in Sudan-Egypt relations, invoking concerns about escalating tensions potentially leading to a broader regional conflict that may involve neighboring nations such as Ethiopia. Awad expressed skepticism about the RSF’s capacity to supply viable alternatives for merchants impacted by the ban, questioning, “Who will buy the banned products and is there a safe alternative to the Egyptian markets?” She also indicated that this embargo might serve as a pretext to intensify military action within Sudan, speculating that forthcoming developments will clarify the situation. Analyst Mohammed Latif similarly posited that the dynamics between Sudan and Egypt will undergo substantial alteration following this ban. In the meantime, RSF supporters circulated video evidence of trucks laden with goods and livestock being turned away at the border, despite Hemedti’s contrary directives regarding documentation of RSF operations.
This situation arises from a complex historical backdrop of tensions between Sudan and Egypt, revolving around territorial disputes, resource allocations, and political alliances within the region. The RSF has recently gained prominence due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, capitalizing on its control over key areas and leveraging its strategic position against perceived adversaries, such as Egypt. Hemedti’s leadership of the RSF has heightened assertiveness in withstanding external pressures, fostering a context ripe for conflict. The importance of trade between Sudan and Egypt, particularly for agricultural exports, exacerbates the situation as economic dependencies are at stake, compelling a reevaluation of bilateral relations.
In summation, the RSF’s ban on Sudanese exports to Egypt marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two countries, indicating a potential shift towards open confrontation. The implications of this ban extend beyond economic ramifications, with analysts predicting that it could trigger wider regional instability and conflict involving multiple neighboring nations. The actions taken by the RSF reflect a critical juncture in Sudan’s internal struggles for power and control, which could have profound consequences for its relationships with other nations in the region.
Original Source: english.aawsat.com
