The UK House of Commons witnessed a heated debate on the war in Sudan, with MPs from across the political spectrum directing sharp criticism at their government over what they described as a failure to hold the United Arab Emirates accountable for supporting the Rapid Support Forces, which stand accused of committing widespread crimes against civilians.
During the session, several MPs said the ongoing war and the RSF’s brutality would not have continued “without Emirati funding and support,” calling for the imposition of Magnitsky-style sanctions on individuals and figures within the UAE, in line with measures taken by the United States and the European Union.
MPs pointed to the presence of at least 21 Sudanese individuals linked to the RSF who are residing in the United Kingdom and known to authorities, and who are suspected of financing the war, yet have not been sanctioned.
Lawmakers also strongly criticized the government for continuing arms exports to the UAE, despite reports by international organizations—including Amnesty International—indicating that British-made equipment has been found in Sudan, some of it used in targeting systems and armored vehicles.
In response, the UK Foreign Secretary defended the government’s position, stating that “there is no evidence in recent reports of British weapons or ammunition being used in Sudan,” and that the items identified fall under “non-lethal equipment.” He added that the government “does not rule out further sanctions,” but does not comment on decisions concerning specific individuals.
The debate comes amid growing fears of a repeat of the El-Fasher scenario in the Kordofan region, with warnings of an imminent humanitarian catastrophe as restrictions on humanitarian access persist.
