The United Arab Emirates has publicly welcomed the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) decision to dismiss the case filed by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), a case which had accused the UAE of alleged interference in Sudan’s ongoing internal conflict. The court, located in The Hague, ruled that it lacked jurisdiction to hear the case, thereby striking it off its list and formally bringing the proceedings to an end. This decisive ruling, which carries considerable legal and diplomatic weight, was seen by the UAE as a complete vindication of its stance and a rejection of what it considers politically motivated accusations.
ICJ Decision Marks a Legal Victory for the UAE
The ruling by the ICJ is significant not only in the context of the immediate legal proceedings but also for its broader implications for international diplomacy and state responsibility. The court’s finding of a “manifest lack of jurisdiction” essentially nullifies the charges levied by the SAF. According to the UAE, this outcome confirms what it has repeatedly stated: that the SAF’s claims are devoid of merit, fabricated, and politically motivated.
By formally removing the case from its docket, the ICJ has sent a strong message against the misuse of international legal mechanisms for propagandistic or diversionary tactics. The UAE views this as a reaffirmation of the principles of international justice and a demonstration of the ICJ’s commitment to upholding the integrity of legal standards.
UAE Officials Respond to the Verdict
Following the announcement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement reiterating its long-held position on the matter. Reem Ketait, Deputy Assistant Minister of Political Affairs and UAE Co-Agent at the ICJ, delivered the official response. According to Ketait, the ICJ’s dismissal represents a “clear and decisive affirmation” of the UAE’s innocence.
She remarked, “The decision is a clear and decisive affirmation of the fact that this case was utterly baseless. Quite simply, today’s decision represents a resounding rejection of SAF’s attempt to instrumentalise the Court for its campaign of misinformation and to distract from its own responsibility.”
Ketait’s remarks reflect the UAE’s view that the SAF has tried to exploit international institutions to deflect attention from its role in the ongoing Sudanese civil war. The UAE has consistently denied the SAF’s accusations and has accused it of engaging in atrocities against civilians within Sudan.
Context of the Sudanese Conflict
The civil war in Sudan, which has now entered its third year, has caused devastating humanitarian and social consequences across the region. The primary actors in the conflict are the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), both of which have been accused by international observers of committing grave violations of human rights.
Against this backdrop, the SAF’s legal move against the UAE was seen by many analysts as a political strategy rather than a legitimate legal action. The case was widely criticized as lacking substance and serving more as an international spectacle than a bona fide effort to seek redress. With the ICJ’s ruling, the international community now has a clearer view of the nature of the SAF’s legal maneuver.
Call for Peace and Humanitarian Access
In her post-ruling statement, Reem Ketait went beyond legal commentary to issue a humanitarian appeal. She urged both the SAF and the RSF to end hostilities and begin peace negotiations without preconditions.
“As Sudan’s devastating civil war enters its third year, the UAE calls on the SAF and RSF to end the war without preconditions, commit to negotiations, and allow unhindered humanitarian access,” she stated.
Ketait emphasized the importance of opening humanitarian corridors and facilitating the delivery of aid to Sudanese civilians caught in the crossfire. The UAE’s call aligns with broader international demands for ceasefires, dialogue, and humanitarian support. Ketait added that the international community has a vital role to play in steering Sudan toward a civilian-led political process that excludes military domination.
Commitment to Justice and Accountability
The UAE’s response to the ICJ ruling also underlines its call for justice and accountability in Sudan. Ketait’s statement highlighted the need to hold perpetrators of war crimes and atrocities accountable, regardless of their affiliations.
The UAE, in cooperation with regional and international stakeholders, aims to support initiatives that not only restore peace but also uphold human rights and international law. This includes backing diplomatic measures that prioritize civilian governance and sustainable conflict resolution.
According to Ketait, “The international community must act decisively to help facilitate a civilian-led political process, independent from military control, and hold perpetrators of atrocities accountable.”
Regional and International Implications
The ICJ’s dismissal of the SAF case against the UAE has ripple effects beyond the immediate legal victory. It could influence how similar cases are viewed in the future, especially when states attempt to bring politically motivated claims before international tribunals.
For the UAE, the ruling not only clears its name but also reinforces its broader diplomatic stance in the region. The Emirates has frequently positioned itself as a proponent of regional stability, peace-building, and multilateral cooperation. This ruling allows the UAE to continue its diplomatic and humanitarian engagement in Sudan and elsewhere with reinforced credibility.
The outcome also sends a message to other nations considering similar legal actions: that international legal institutions are not arenas for propaganda or political showmanship. This could help preserve the integrity of bodies like the ICJ and ensure they remain forums for genuine justice.
UAE’s Role in the Humanitarian Sphere
In addition to its legal and diplomatic engagements, the UAE has maintained a presence in the humanitarian sector with regards to the Sudanese crisis. Over the past two years, the UAE has facilitated the delivery of aid, hosted peace talks, and engaged in multilateral efforts to bring stakeholders to the negotiation table.
With the SAF’s case now dismissed, the UAE has stated it will continue its humanitarian commitments. Reem Ketait reiterated, “We will continue to work with regional and international partners to advance collective action to build a peaceful and prosperous future for the Sudanese people.”
The UAE’s ongoing involvement in Sudan’s peace process reflects its broader foreign policy goals: to act as a stabilizing force in the Middle East and North Africa and to promote development and peace across conflict-ridden regions.
Diplomatic Strategy Moving Forward
Following this significant legal and diplomatic win, the UAE is expected to reinforce its strategic partnerships with both regional and international actors. The ICJ ruling provides diplomatic leverage that could enhance its position in future negotiations related to Sudan and similar conflict zones.
The UAE is likely to increase pressure on both the SAF and RSF to come to the negotiating table. With the international legal question now settled in its favor, the Emirates can refocus on diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian initiatives without the burden of unfounded allegations.
Furthermore, this outcome could strengthen the UAE’s role in international forums such as the United Nations and the Arab League, where it can advocate for conflict resolution mechanisms grounded in legality and diplomacy.
The Verdict’s Symbolic Importance
While the ICJ ruling is legally binding, its symbolic importance should not be underestimated. It underscores a global unwillingness to entertain cases that are perceived as tools of manipulation rather than genuine efforts at seeking justice.
The UAE’s successful defense at the ICJ sets a precedent for how the international community views attempts to politicize legal institutions. It also reaffirms the value of multilateralism grounded in transparency and truth.
The UAE’s leadership has emphasized that while the court proceedings have concluded, its commitment to Sudan’s people remains unwavering. This stance reinforces the image of the UAE as a nation committed to diplomacy, humanitarianism, and principled international engagement.
