Egypt and Turkey Increase Support for Sudan's Army After RSF Capture of El-Fasher
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized el-Fasher in Darfur, marking a critical moment in Sudan’s conflict. Egypt views this not just as another clash but as a threat to its own national security, reconsidering its southern borders as its first line of defence.
Impact of RSF Advances on Regional Security
The fall of North Darfur’s capital has significantly changed the dynamics in the region. RSF fighters have subjected el-Fasher's residents to widespread abuses, prompting Cairo to intensify military and diplomatic efforts to contain the crisis.
Egypt’s Role and Concerns
- Egypt has maintained a longstanding military relationship with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which has been fighting the RSF since April 2023.
- Following the RSF's capture of parts of the arid border region involving Sudan, Egypt, and Libya in June, the government of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi fears the conflict could spill across its borders.
- In response, Egypt is redrawing its security strategy by enhancing military coordination and engaging in diplomatic efforts to manage the fallout.
Challenges Faced by Sudanese Armed Forces
The SAF and its Joint Forces allies were outmatched in el-Fasher by RSF fighters equipped with superior weapons and technology supplied by the United Arab Emirates, a close ally of Egypt. Sudanese diplomats have indicated that the SAF is actively seeking additional support to counterbalance these disadvantages.
"When the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) seized el-Fasher in Darfur, Egypt did not just see another battle in Sudan’s war, it saw a potential breach in its own defences."
"The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), which has been fighting the RSF since April 2023, enjoys a longstanding relationship with Egypt’s military, and Cairo has helped its ally throughout the war."
Author's summary: Egypt and Turkey are increasing their support for Sudan’s army as the RSF capture of el-Fasher marks a strategic threat spilling into regional security concerns, prompting military and diplomatic responses.