In the midst of Sudan’s ongoing civil war, the government’s struggle against external interference highlights a growing concern among African nations regarding sovereignty and foreign involvement in their affairs. Sudanese Foreign Minister Mohieldin Salem claims that the conflict represents a crucial defense not only for Sudan but for the entire continent against daunting global challenges. This assertion sheds light on the intricate dynamics of regional stability, urging the African Union’s involvement to foster peace and restore government legitimacy.
Sudan’s Foreign Minister Mohieldin Salem has emphasized that his government is actively safeguarding Africa from foreign plots by addressing foreign interference in the country’s violent civil war, which is now entering its third year. Speaking during an interview with ZezapTV in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on the sidelines of a meeting of the African Union’s (AU) Peace and Security Council, Salem described the conflict between the government-aligned Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group as primarily a struggle against external intervention.
Salem asserted, “The war currently being fought in Sudan is a war against foreign interference. It involves a large number of mercenaries and significant external intervention through funding and advanced weaponry.” He emphasized that Sudan is not merely combating a domestic issue, but is also protecting the interests of the entire African continent from external threats.
He called upon the AU to strengthen its support for Sudan, stating that the organization must unite with the Sudanese government to work towards sustainable stability. The minister suggested that reinstating Sudan’s AU membership, suspended since October 2021 following the sacking of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and the declaration of a state of emergency, would significantly benefit Africa.
Salem’s allegations against the United Arab Emirates, which Sudan has accused of providing arms and funding to the RSF, adds another layer to the ongoing conflict. Last year, Sudan filed a case against the UAE at the International Court of Justice, claiming it was complicit in genocide against the Masalit community in West Darfur. The UAE has firmly denied these allegations and has expressed its focus on humanitarian efforts in Sudan.
Furthermore, the Saudi Arabian government, a critical supporter of Sudan’s ruling authorities, has condemned foreign interference in the conflict, which includes accusations of illegal arms influx and the recruitment of mercenaries. This stance reflects a broader concern within the region regarding external influence and its potential to disrupt local governance and stability.
During the recent AU meeting, Salem reiterated his call for Sudan’s membership to be reinstated, arguing for a united front against those he believes are exacerbating the conflict. Despite the council’s decision not to reinstate Sudan’s membership immediately, it did express strong condemnation of foreign interference and urged all global actors to cease actions that might exacerbate the crisis.
With a humanitarian crisis deepening, impacting millions and leading to severe food shortages, the AU’s position represents a critical moment in Sudan’s quest for peace and recovery. As the internal and external dynamics evolve, the situation calls for vigilant international engagement and a commitment to fostering African-led solutions. #MiddleEastNews #PoliticsNews