Why in news
In the ongoing Sudan conflicts, up to 150,000 people have died, and nearly 10 million have been displaced, including 2.5 million who have fled abroad.
These figures are nearly four times those of Gaza
The conflict is between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the Rapid Support Force (RSF) led by Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemayti).
The conflict has led to severe conditions, with the country facing the threat of famine and epidemics like cholera.
West Asia-North Africa (WANA) region
Also referred to as Middle East and North Africa (MENA) or South West Asia and North Africa (SWANA), is a geographic region which comprises the Middle East (or West Asia) and North Africa together.
The region has no standardized definition and groupings may vary
However, it is widely considered to be a more defined and apolitical alternative to the concept of the Greater Middle East, which comprises the bulk of the Muslim world
Comprises 19 countries with varying degrees of economic growth.
The areas start from westward Morocco to Libya, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, and Turkey and stretch to Iran eastward
Sudan
Sudan, is a country in Northeast Africa.
It borders the Central African Republic to the southwest, Chad to the west, Egypt to the north, Eritrea to the northeast, Ethiopia to the southeast, Libya to the northwest, South Sudan to the south, and the Red Sea.
Africa's third-largest country by area and the third-largest by area in the Arab League.
Its capital and most populous city is Khartoum.
Foreign Interests in Sudan's Conflict
Sudan's position along the Red Sea and its borders with seven countries make it geopolitically significant for foreign powers.
Sudan has valuable resources, including oil, gold, and fertile land, attracting international actors.
Various countries and groups are backing different factions:
Egypt and Iran: Support SAF and RSF, respectively.
Russia: Wagner Group supports RSF, while seeking a naval base in Port Sudan.
UAE: Provides weapons and financial support to RSF.
Chad and Libya: Support RSF, alongside mercenaries from different regions.
Ethiopia and Eritrea: Awaiting opportunities to influence the situation.
The U.S., Saudi Arabia, and other international bodies have attempted to mediate but have faced challenges due to the factions’ intransigence.
India's Stake in the Conflict
India has significant trade relations with Sudan, including a record trade value of $2.03 billion in 2022-23, and substantial investments in the oil sector.
India’s investments in Sudan total around $2.3 billion, with additional commitments of $700 million in lines of credit.
Strong ties exist through Sudanese students and medical tourists in India.
Prolonged conflict in Sudan could potentially revive Islamic militancy, posing a threat to Indian interests.
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