The Sudanese paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) recently claimed to have captured “Egyptian mercenaries” in Sudan, fueling tensions between the two countries. The RSF accused Egypt of involvement in military operations against them, including supplying weapons and aircraft. RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, alleged that Cairo had participated in airstrikes on the group, a claim denied by Egypt’s foreign ministry.
Since April 2023, the RSF has been embroiled in a brutal war against the regular Sudanese army, resulting in widespread displacement and civilian casualties. The RSF accused Egypt of killing Sudanese civilians and destroying infrastructure, alleging that the Egyptian air force contributed to hundreds of civilian deaths in various regions.
The conflict has displaced over ten million people, with concerns of ethnic cleansing and sexual violence by the RSF. Aid agencies have struggled to provide humanitarian assistance, while the Sudanese government has accused the RSF of receiving external support from the United Arab Emirates, a claim dismissed by the Emiratis.
The escalating conflict has drawn international attention, with mediation efforts by Egypt, the US, and Saudi Arabia to end the fighting. However, the situation remains dire, with millions in need of assistance and fears of further violence.