Amnesty International claims that armored vehicles from the UAE equipped with French defense systems have been discovered with the Sudanese army, indicating a potential violation of a UN arms embargo. The civil war has caused significant humanitarian suffering, with many deaths and displacements. The UAE denies supplying arms to the RSF, calling the accusations part of a disinformation campaign.
Amnesty International has reported that armored vehicles produced by the United Arab Emirates and fitted with French military systems have been seized by the Sudanese army amid the ongoing civil conflict in the nation. According to their findings, these UAE-manufactured armored personnel carriers (APCs) have been utilized by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in various regions, including Darfur, against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). Amnesty asserts that these developments likely signify a breach of the United Nations arms embargo restricting arms transfers to Sudan. The civil war, which erupted in April 2023, has led to catastrophic humanitarian consequences, with over 20,000 fatalities and millions displaced. The UAE has denied allegations of supplying arms to the RSF, calling the claims part of a disinformation campaign aimed at tarnishing its image. Notably, evidence gathered by Amnesty indicates that French-designed weaponry is actively employed within this conflict, emphasizing the imperative for France to halt such exports to the UAE.
The situation in Sudan has deteriorated significantly since April 2023 when civil unrest escalated into full-blown conflict between the RSF and the SAF. The ensuing violence has resulted in widespread human rights violations and a humanitarian crisis, displacing over 11 million individuals. International scrutiny has intensified regarding the sources of military support for the combatants, particularly concerning foreign arms supplies, including those allegedly traced back to the UAE and French defense manufacturers.
In summary, Amnesty International’s findings raise serious concerns about the violation of a UN arms embargo in Sudan, highlighting the role of UAE-sourced vehicles equipped with French systems in the ongoing conflict. The humanitarian situation continues to worsen, necessitating immediate international attention and action. The allegations made against the UAE must be thoroughly investigated to ensure accountability and compliance with international law.
Original Source: apnews.com
