A historic defense partnership between the United States and the United Arab Emirates was announced during UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to the White House on September 23, 2024. This new agreement elevates the UAE to the status of Major Defense Partner, allowing for increased military cooperation between the two nations.
The partnership includes joint training and exercises between their armed forces and aims to promote regional stability through collaborative efforts with other military partners. Strategic investments in critical infrastructure, such as ports and mines, are also on the agenda, with UAE-based companies showing interest in projects along the East African coast.
However, concerns have been raised about the timing of this partnership, as the UAE is currently facing accusations of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. Reports have alleged that the UAE provided military equipment disguised as humanitarian aid to the RSF.
The US has acknowledged external actors’ role in perpetuating the Sudan conflict and called for an end to arming warring factions. Critics argue that the defense pact contradicts efforts to hold parties accountable in Sudan, emphasizing the need for prioritizing human rights over military partnerships.
As the situation in Sudan unfolds, the international community continues to call for an end to the conflict, while the impact of the US-UAE defense pact on regional dynamics remains a subject of debate.
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