Sudan cuts diplomatic relations with UAE over support for rebel forces

In a statement, Sudan’s Security and Defense Council labeled the UAE as an “aggressor state,” accusing it of supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

“The world has witnessed for more than two years the UAE’s aggression against Sudan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the safety of its citizens,” the council declared.

Sudan has also filed a case against the UAE at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing it of complicity in genocide in the West Darfur region. Both the court and the UAE have rejected the allegations.

The Rapid Support Forces were initially a paramilitary group under the Sudanese government’s control but transformed into a rebel faction in 2023. On April 15, 2025, the RSF announced the establishment of a parallel administration called the “Peace and Solidarity Government” to govern areas under its control.