As Sudan plunges back into the throes of a devastating civil war, international attention is increasingly focused on Iran’s escalating involvement. The conflict, which reignited in April 2023, threatens to destabilize the already volatile region further, bringing the potential for a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, according to a report published by The Jerusalem Strategic Tribune.
Home to 49 million people, Sudan is experiencing one of its most severe crises since the fall of General Omar Bashir in 2019. Initial hopes for democratic progress have dissipated, leading to massive displacement and a potential famine, with 10 million people already uprooted and vital international aid obstructed by ongoing hostilities.
The conflict features two major factions: the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by Muhamad Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. The SAF is widely regarded as a front for the Muslim Brotherhood. Conversely, the RSF has garnered support from Chad, and Ethiopia.
Re-entering the fray, Iran has re-established its influence by providing the SAF with advanced weapons, allegedly in exchange for hosting an Iranian naval base on Sudan’s strategic Red Sea coast. Initially hesitant, General al-Burhan accepted Iranian military aid, including drones, as RSF forces gained ground, capturing key areas like the Gezira region and parts of Khartoum.
This escalation has occurred with minimal intervention from global powers. The United States, while expressing concern over the humanitarian fallout, has shown restraint in directly addressing Iran’s involvement. Tom Perriello, U.S. special envoy for Sudan, highlighted the severe risks of famine and regional destabilization in testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Iran’s strategic engagement in Sudan reflects a broader pattern of asserting its influence throughout the region by supporting diverse militant groups, irrespective of sectarian affiliations. This approach underlines Tehran’s goal of expanding its geopolitical reach, often destabilizing regional dynamics. This includes backing contentious forces in Yemen, Syria, and Gaza.
Unlike Yemen, Sudan’s strategic position on the Red Sea underscores its geopolitical significance. The risk of Sudan returning to a hub for terrorism, combined with growing Iranian influence, poses a substantial threat not only to regional stability but also to international security interests, including those of maritime powers reliant on Red Sea trade routes.
The global community must closely monitor Iran’s activities in Sudan, ensuring that international efforts to stabilize the region are not compromised by external actors exploiting the conflict for their strategic ambitions.
