The war in Sudan is drawing in neighboring states through alleged proxy support, raising regional instability. If a colleague or friend follows Horn of Africa security issues, this may be worth sending their way.
Sudan Blames UAE, Ethiopia for Drone Strikes Story flow and key facts
Sudan has formally accused Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates of involvement in a series of drone attacks, including one that forced the closure of Khartoum International Airport for three days. The Sudanese military claims to have evidence that four attacks since early March were launched from Ethiopian territory using drones supplied by the UAE. The allegations mark a significant escalation in regional tensions, as Sudan continues to battle the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in a conflict that began in April 2023.
Ethiopia has denied the claims, calling them 'baseless' and countering that Sudan supports Tigrayan rebels. The UAE has not commented on the latest accusation but has previously denied backing the RSF or supplying weapons. Analysts warn that mutual suspicions between neighboring governments are creating a dangerous feedback loop, further destabilizing the Horn of Africa.
The conflict in Sudan has already caused over 150,000 deaths and displaced around 14 million people, according to the UN. Drones have become a key weapon in the war, sustained by foreign military support. With more than 1.8 million people returning to Khartoum in recent months, renewed attacks threaten to disrupt fragile recovery efforts in the capital.
Facts
- Sudan accused Ethiopia and the UAE of involvement in four drone attacks since early March 2026, including one on Khartoum International Airport.
- Sudan recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia and suspended airport operations for three days following the attack.
- Ethiopia denied the allegations, calling them 'baseless,' and accused Sudan of supporting Tigrayan rebels.
- The UAE has not responded to the latest accusation but has previously denied funding the RSF or supplying weapons.
- Over 150,000 people have been killed and 14 million displaced in Sudan's civil war since April 2023, according to the UN.
- Analyst Alan Boswell of ICG warned foreign support is prolonging the war and creating a 'very dangerous dynamic' in the region.
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