A UK parliamentary committee has accused the British government of complicity in mass atrocities in Sudan due to its close ties with the United Arab Emirates, which is alleged to have provided military support to Sudanese paramilitaries. The report, released by the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, calls for immediate sanctions and an arms embargo against those responsible.
MPs Allege UK Complicity
The cross-party committee found that the UK's relationship with the UAE enabled the Gulf state to supply weapons and logistical support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group implicated in widespread abuses in Sudan's civil war. The report states that the UK government failed to act despite clear evidence of atrocities, including mass killings and sexual violence.
Committee chair Nathaniel Raymond said: "The UK government has turned a blind eye to the UAE's role in fueling the conflict in Sudan. This is not just a failure of diplomacy—it is complicity in crimes against humanity." The report documents over 30 instances where UAE aircraft delivered military equipment to RSF bases, often using UK-licensed airports.
Government Response Under Fire
The Foreign Office rejected the allegations, stating that the UK has imposed sanctions on both the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces and provided humanitarian aid. However, the committee criticized these measures as insufficient, noting that UK arms sales to the UAE continued until 2024, despite warnings from officials.
According to the report, at least 150,000 people have been killed in the conflict since April 2023, with over 8 million displaced. The committee urged the UK to push for a UN arms embargo and to reevaluate its defense partnerships with the UAE.
International Implications
The findings have sparked international concern, with human rights groups calling for an independent investigation. The US State Department has not commented, but analysts say the report could strain UK-UAE relations. The UAE embassy in London denied the allegations, calling them "baseless and politically motivated."
The committee also highlighted the UK's role in the UN Security Council, where it has veto power. It recommended that the UK sponsor a resolution to investigate war crimes in Sudan, a move that would require backing from other permanent members.
