Sudan’s civil war, which broke out in April 2023, has not only destroyed the country but also attracted a tangled web of foreign players, each with their own strategic and economic agendas. This foreign intervention has further complicated the conflict, shaping its course and deepening the humanitarian crisis.
The Genesis of the Conflict
The war largely involves the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), commanded by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also referred to as Hemedti. Rivalries between the two intensified over issues of transition to civilian government, army integration, and domination of lucrative economic resources. The ensuing struggle for power has caused extensive violence, displacing millions and putting the country into chaos.
Regional Actors and Their Interests
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE has been cited as a major outside actor in Sudan’s civil conflict. There have been reports that the RSF is supplied with weapons by the UAE, while Emirati interests are served by Sudanese gold smuggled to Dubai via Al Gunade and other companies.
- Egypt: Egypt has long-standing relations with Sudan and has been supportive of the SAF, in line with its regional stability interest and fear of Islamist group influence. Cairo’s support for the Sudanese military reflects its interest in having a friendly regime in Khartoum.
- Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia has had a considerable role in Sudan ever since the deposal of ousted President Omar al-Bashir. Riyadh, together with the UAE, helped the Transitional Military Council, the junta which seized power upon Bashir’s ousting, with a $3 billion bailout. Such funding indicates the interest of Saudi Arabia in taking control of the political dynamics in Sudan.
Global Actors and Their Roles
- United States: US has deployed diplomatic actions to broker a solution to the crisis, with the goal of enabling a ceasefire and assuring a transition to civilian leadership. Criticisms have arisen, though, that such efforts have not been effective, and that the policies of the US could have actually helped create the crisis through their inability to effectively intervene in the balance of power between the SAF and RSF. Moreover, the United States has offered humanitarian support, committing life-saving programs including shelter and healthcare for Sudan’s most vulnerable citizens.
- Russia and Iran: Both countries have been accused of providing drones and other military aid to Sudanese factions, adding fuel to the conflict and making international efforts for peace more complicated.
Humanitarian Implications
The intervention of external powers has deepened the conflict, with devastating humanitarian implications. The war has claimed more than 150,000 lives and displaced 11 million individuals. Hospitals are filled to capacity, malnutrition is widespread, and famine threatens in many areas. Much of the promised assistance from abroad has not been forthcoming, leaving millions in desperate need.
Conclusion
Sudan’s civil war is a grim reminder of the ways in which internal conflicts can become battlegrounds for international power struggles. As foreign powers seek their strategic and economic interests, the Sudanese people suffer the consequences of the ensuing violence and humanitarian crises. Lasting peace can only be achieved by not only resolving the internal cleavages within Sudan but also preventing the negative impacts of external interventions.
