I am writing to urge you to take immediate action to address the genocide in Sudan and hold the United Arab Emirates accountable for its alleged role in funding the Rapid Support Forces.
Since April 2023, Sudan's civil war has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and displaced 12 million people. The fall of el-Fasher to the RSF in late October marked the last major city in southwest Sudan to come under their control. Both the United Nations and the Biden administration have recognized the RSF's actions as genocide, yet the violence continues with devastating consequences for civilians.
Evidence suggests the UAE has been funding the RSF and conducting drone strikes in Sudan, despite the UAE's denials. These allegations are serious enough that Sudan's government has filed a case against the UAE in the International Court of Justice. While the US has imposed sanctions on leaders of both the RSF and Sudan's army for war crimes and killing civilians, more comprehensive action is needed to cut off the RSF's resources and end the atrocities.
I ask that you take three specific actions. First, publicly recognize the RSF's actions as genocide and call for international accountability. Second, support legislation to designate the RSF as a terrorist organization, which would enable additional sanctions and legal measures. Third, advocate for an arms embargo against the UAE until it ceases any support for the RSF and cooperates with international investigations.
The people of Sudan cannot wait while diplomatic niceties delay action. Every day of inaction means more deaths, more displacement, and more suffering. The United States has both the moral obligation and the diplomatic tools to pressure the UAE and other actors enabling this genocide. I urge you to use your position to demand accountability and work toward ending this humanitarian catastrophe.