The United Arab Emirates has pushed back strongly against accusations leveled at it in connection with the conflict in Sudan, using its “Right of Reply” at the 61st United Nations Human Rights Council session in Geneva to reject what it called baseless allegations.
Speaking on February 26, Khalifa Al Mazrouei, Counsellor at the UAE’s Permanent Mission to the UN, dismissed claims made by parties involved in the Sudanese conflict, describing them as “false” and intended to divert attention from the real issues and responsibilities of the warring factions in Sudan.
Al Mazrouei argued that, rather than focusing on protecting civilians or working with the international community to end the violence, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) were deflecting scrutiny from serious allegations documented in official UN reports. He highlighted that both the SAF and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are obligated under international law to protect human rights and abide by humanitarian principles.
Reports presented to the Council outlined a grim picture, alleging systematic attacks on hospitals, markets, and schools, as well as extrajudicial executions, arbitrary arrests, sexual violence, and the use of prohibited weapons—all affecting Sudanese civilians and humanitarian workers.
The UAE representative reiterated his country’s consistent condemnation of violations committed during the conflict. He also questioned the credibility of the accusers, pointing to what he called a pattern of impunity and resistance to international investigation.
Al Mazrouei emphasized that the UAE stands for accountability, civilian protection, and meaningful participation in peace initiatives as essential for resolving the crisis. He concluded that politicized accusations only distract from the urgent need for real solutions and humanitarian action in Sudan.
