UAE rejects claims of supplying weapons to Sudanese conflict

ABU DHABI: The UAE has strongly rejected misleading reports alleging it is supplying weaponry amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan. In a statement issued by Salem Aljaberi, UAE Assistant Minister for Security and Military Affairs, the UAE said it is aware of a misleading report published by a non-governmental organisation regarding allegations about the presence of AH-4 howitzer systems in Sudan.

Complete statement by the Minister:

“The UAE strongly rejects the suggestion that it is supplying weaponry to any party involved in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. These claims are baseless and lack substantiated evidence.

The UAE reaffirms its consistent and clear position: it is not providing arms or military support to any of the warring parties in Sudan. This has been conveyed directly to the United Nations (UN) and is reflected in the latest report of the UN Security Council's Panel of Experts on the Sudan sanctions regime, which makes no findings against the UAE and provides no support to the allegations of UAE involvement in arms transfers to Sudan.

The howitzer referenced in the report is a system manufactured outside the UAE and has been available on the international market for nearly a decade. The assertion that only one country has procured or transferred this system is invalid.

The UAE reiterates the importance of verifying information rigorously before publication.

The UAE operates a comprehensive and robust export control regime in line with its applicable obligations under international law, including with respect to arms control. The UAE takes these responsibilities seriously and remains committed to working with its international partners to prevent the illicit flow of arms in conflict zones.

The UAE continues to call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Sudan, the protection of civilians, and the resumption of an inclusive political process that leads to a civilian government independent from military control.

The UAE remains one of Sudan's most steadfast supporters over the past five decades, and will continue to extend its support and solidarity to the Sudanese people. Our humanitarian commitment to the people of Sudan will not waver."