Geopolitical rivalries have escalated amid Sudan’s civil war, with foreign powers vying for influence in the Red Sea region. Sudan’s strategic location, akin to the Houthis in Yemen, provides leverage over the vital Suez Canal, attracting interest from global players. In March, Iran proposed a naval base in Port Sudan, signalling its ambition to establish a foothold in the area. Although Sudan rejected the offer, concerns persist about Iran’s support for the Sudanese military and monitoring activities near Israel.
Russia has also deepened its involvement, offering military aid to Sudan’s government. Analysts fear such interventions may prolong the conflict and destabilize the region. Sudan, once seen as a commodity for foreign exploitation, now faces intense international competition, raising the specter of broader conflict.
Iran’s ambitions in Port Sudan
Despite Sudan’s alignment with Saudi Arabia, Iran continues to pursue a naval facility in the Red Sea, complicating regional dynamics. Russian influence, primarily through the Wagner Group, further entrenches Moscow’s presence in Sudan, leveraging resources for military support.
Russian influence via Wagner Group
Russia’s strategic partnerships with Sudan ensure access to critical resources, bolstering Moscow’s position in the region. The supply of advanced weaponry to Sudan’s army could shift the conflict dynamics, potentially affecting neighboring states. However, direct military intervention remains uncertain, with ongoing concerns about the conflict’s escalation.