The United Arab Emirates has stated that it does not recognize the decision by Sudan’s Security and Defense Council to cut diplomatic relations, claiming that the Port Sudan-based administration does not represent Sudan’s legitimate government. In a statement released through state media, the UAE rejected the Sudanese council’s remarks as “regrettable” and accused it of attempting to derail peace efforts.
The diplomatic fallout comes a day after the International Court of Justice dismissed Sudan’s case accusing the UAE of breaching the Genocide Convention by allegedly arming the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group at war with the Sudanese army since 2023.
Sudanese officials criticized the UAE’s response, saying that referring to Sudan’s legitimate government and military as merely the “Port Sudan authority” constitutes a serious affront to the country’s sovereignty.
The UAE has also been accused of engaging with non-state armed groups across several parts of Africa. Sudanese authorities view this as a violation of international norms and a destabilizing influence in the region.
Tensions have escalated amid ongoing drone attacks on Port Sudan, which the army blames on the RSF. The city had previously been considered a safe zone and serves as a hub for humanitarian aid and displaced civilians.