Sudan’s military has rejected claims by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) that its forces bombed the residence of the UAE ambassador in Khartoum, blaming the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for the attack. Earlier, the UAE condemned the incident, accusing Sudanese military aircraft of targeting the diplomatic post and calling it a “heinous attack.”
In response, the Sudanese military issued a statement labeling the RSF as responsible for the “shameful and cowardly” actions, asserting that they do not target diplomatic missions, UN agencies, or voluntary organizations. The army further accused the RSF of turning diplomatic premises into military bases and looting their assets.
The UAE expressed its outrage over the incident, stating the attack was a “flagrant violation” of diplomatic inviolability and caused significant damage. The Gulf state called on the Sudanese military to take responsibility for the event, announcing plans to file complaints with the League of Arab States, the African Union, and the United Nations.
The Sudanese military also hinted that foreign countries, including the UAE, are backing the RSF, which has led to the protracted conflict. In previous accusations, Sudan’s UN ambassador alleged that the UAE provided financial and military support to the RSF, a claim Abu Dhabi denied, stating its focus is on de-escalation and humanitarian aid.
UN monitors have deemed the allegations of UAE military support to the RSF as credible. The war, which started in April 2023, has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and a deepening humanitarian crisis in Sudan. The UN reports nearly 25 million people are in need of aid, with famine looming and millions displaced. As government forces launch renewed efforts to retake Khartoum, the RSF remains largely in control of the capital, amid accusations of civilian abuses.