The relationship between the Sudanese army, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and Iran has taken a troubling turn, characterized by political, military, and intelligence partnerships with far-reaching implications for the stability of Sudan and the wider region. These ties, masked by strategic goals, reveal Iran's attempts to dominate Sudan's decision-making processes and exploit the army to bolster its regional influence.
Military Dimension: Arms and Logistics Disguised as Development Projects
Iran plays a pivotal role in supplying the Sudanese army with weapons and military equipment through covert methods, including shell companies and shipments disguised as civilian projects. For instance, the resumption of work on water stations in Shendi and Metema is believed to be a cover for arms transfers to the Sudanese army. This alliance strengthens the army's position in its conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), prolonging the war and exacerbating civilian suffering.
Intelligence Collaboration: A Cross-Border Threat
The ties are not limited to military cooperation but extend to intelligence sharing, giving Iran access to sensitive information about Sudan and its neighboring countries. The Iranian intelligence apparatus is reportedly using Sudan as a launchpad for its subversive activities across the region, exploiting the country's institutional weakness amidst ongoing conflict.
Economic Dominance: A Gateway for Iranian Influence
Economically, Iran seeks to dominate Sudan's resources through dubious investments in mining and energy sectors. These investments, superficially developmental, serve as a tool for expanding Iranian influence and tightening control over the nation's wealth, further draining Sudan's economy and increasing its vulnerability to foreign domination.
The Sudanese-Iranian alliance poses not just a national threat but also a regional and global one. Iran’s exploitation of Sudan as a platform to destabilize the region heightens tensions with neighboring countries and deepens its international isolation. Meanwhile, its support for the Sudanese army in the internal conflict complicates peace efforts and perpetuates instability.
The deepening ties between the Sudanese army and Iran represent a grave danger to Sudan and the broader region. This alliance places the country squarely under Iranian influence and worsens its political and economic crises. The international and regional communities must intervene to curb this dangerous partnership and ensure Sudan's independence and sovereignty are protected from foreign domination.
The Sudanese people remain the true force capable of confronting these challenges, uniting their ranks, and demanding an end to foreign interventions aimed at weakening and dividing the country.