The internal conflict in Sudan has attracted numerous regional and international players, each looking to sway the situation to their strategic advantage. Among these, Iran has been a significant actor, historically involved in regional conflict dynamics in the Middle East. Analysts are now probing the depth of Iran’s renewed involvement in the Sudanese crisis, particularly its desire to control strategic maritime ports on the Red Sea.
For decades, Iran has sought to expand its influence in Africa through military alliances, economic support, and cultural and religious outreach. Sudan has been central to this focus, especially during the era of the Muslim Brotherhood, which allowed Iran to establish important connections with East African countries and secure strategic outlets potentially useful for enhancing its military and economic influence.
Iran views the Red Sea not just as a trade route but as a crucial strategic point for bolstering its global influence. Controlling these ports could impact maritime traffic and pose a threat to the interests of competing nations, enhancing pressure on Western countries, particularly the United States.
Recent months have seen Iranian-made “Mohajer 6” drones detected over Sudan, illustrating Iran’s intent to strengthen its military foothold in the region, vital for controlling the Red Sea coast. This military support has raised concerns among regional powers and represents an extension of Iran’s strategy to arm various groups across the region.
Observers note that Iran employs diverse tactics in the Sudanese conflict, offering military and intelligence support directly or through intermediaries. Amidst Sudan’s political and military turmoil, Tehran sees an opportunity to establish a lasting presence on the Red Sea coastlines, replicating strategies used in other regions like Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon.
Iran’s close ties with the Houthi group in Yemen exemplify its attempts to control key Red Sea ports. The Houthis’ control over parts of the Yemeni coast has facilitated actions threatening international navigation, highlighted by recent escalations following the Israeli assault on Gaza.
Dr. Hassan Hashemian, a researcher specializing in Iranian affairs, asserts that Iran’s influence in Sudan will have significant regional repercussions, increasing the complexity of the Sudanese conflict. Hashemian emphasizes the central importance of maritime routes, particularly the Red Sea, in Iran’s strategy, reflecting Tehran’s longstanding policy of exploiting political instability in regional states to achieve its long-term objectives of controlling navigation and enhancing its regional influence.
