INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The United States and the United Arab Emirates have forged a new defense partnership
This development comes at a time when the UAE faces accusations of fueling the ongoing war in Sudan.President Joe Biden welcomed UAE
elevation to the status of Major Defense Partner
This designation puts the UAE on par with India in terms of military cooperation with the US.The agreement allows for unprecedented joint
training and exercises between the armed forces of these nations
It also aims to promote regional stability through collaborative efforts with other military partners.The two leaders discussed strategic
investments in critical infrastructure around the world
These include ports, mines, and logistics hubs, with involvement from various UAE-based companies.US-UAE Defense Pact Raises Eyebrows Amid
Sudan Conflict Allegations
(Photo Internet reproduction)Some of these firms have already shown interest in projects along the East African coast
However, the timing of this partnership has raised concerns among critics.The UAE currently stands accused of providing covert support to
the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan
This paramilitary group, led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has been engaged in a brutal conflict since April 2023.Recent reports have shed light
The New York Times claimed that Abu Dhabi used humanitarian aid as a cover to deliver advanced military equipment.Navigating Conflict and
AccountabilityThis included drones for surveillance purposes, disguised under Red Crescent signs
Sudanese military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has expressed regret over external support to the RSF.While he did not name specific
countries, Sudan has previously accused the UAE of supplying weapons through Chad
prolonging the Sudan conflict
President Biden, addressing the UN General Assembly, called for an end to arming the warring factions.He emphasized the need for peace and
humanitarian assistance in the region
Critics argue that the new US-UAE defense pact contradicts efforts to hold parties accountable in Sudan.Raed Jarrar, an advocacy director at
DAWN, expressed concern over rewarding a regime accused of contributing to regional instability
He called for prioritizing accountability and human rights over military partnerships.The conflict in Sudan has attracted various regional
these ports, highlighting their economic significance
some of which is acquired illegally by armed militias
remain about the impact of the US-UAE defense pact on regional dynamics
The international community continues to call for an end to the conflict in Sudan.Meanwhile, the balance between strategic partnerships and
accountability for alleged wrongdoings remains a delicate issue.
