ICJ Dismissed Sudan’s Genocide Case Against UAE: A Victory for Legal Integrity and Diplomatic Clarity
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) dismissed a case, put forth by Sudan against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on May 5, 2025 where Sudan alleged that UAE had violated the Genocide Convention on the grounds of having supplied arms to the paramilitary force committing ethnic violence in Darfur. The ICJ determined it did not have jurisdiction to entertain the case, and rejected Sudan’s request for emergency measures to prevent ongoing violence against the Masalit tribe from Rapid Support Forces and other militias.
https://x.com/mofauae/status/1919389875599556641
Legal Clarity and Rejection of Allegations:
The ICJ’s decision, which was agreed 14-to-2 vote excluded it from hearing the merits of Sudan’s claims on the basis of the UAE’s reservation to Article IX of the Genocide Convention, the reservation serves to limit the jurisdiction of the ICJ to adjudicate in cases of this kind was found legal, confirming that the UAE, as claimed by Sudan, had not breached any international obligations and consolidating the ICJ’s role as a neutral third-party in international disputes.
UAE’s Commitment to International Law:
The UAE has always followed the principles of the United Nations and international law, there has been no history of the UAE ever having done anything against the UN and International laws. After the ICJ’s decision, the UAE once again reiterated that it does not accept any responsibility of Sudan’s internal conflict, while noting the UAE’s commitment to peace, diplomacy, and the rule of law.
https://x.com/mofauae/status/1919386562300944741
Reem Ketait who is the deputy assistant minister for political affairs at the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that “The court’s finding that it is without jurisdiction confirms that this case should never have been brought.”
Allegations as Politically Motivated:
The case being dismissed implies that the lawsuit was an attempt to politicize international legal systems to achieve domestic and regional ends. The timing and nature of the case make it clear that it sought to do damage to UAE’s reputation on the international level. With this case now dismissed, the UAE is left as a victim of wanton legal harassment with no pronouncement of committing wrongful conduct.
Also the ruling of the ICJ offers a chance to reinforce the UAE’s narrative as a principled, law-abiding actor on the global stage. It reinforces the established image of the UAE’s contribution to regional peace, huge support for humanitarian assistance and de-escalation of conflict, as in the case of Sudan. The UAE’s consistent foreign policy values provide reassurance to allies and international partners that the UAE will respect international norms.
Focus on Positive Engagement and UAE’s Role in Sudan:
With this legal win, the UAE can concentrate on developing broader regional cooperation, peacebuilding, and humanitarian assistance in Sudan. The Emirati government has consistently advocated for a political solution for Sudan’s persistent instability and officially supports civilian-led political processes. The UAE has clearly stated a commitment to peace and diplomacy of all kinds, and continued engagement in promoting stability across the region is welcomed.
Overall, the ICJ’s dismissal of Sudan’s case against the UAE not only upholds legal principles but also highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of international legal institutions against politically motivated actions.
Click this link to read the full ruling by ICJ: www.icj-cij.org/sites/default/files/case-related/197/197-20250505-sum-01-00-en.pdf
