Ethiopian Sudan conflict affects refugees amid regional territorial disputes
May 25, 2025 | Foreign Affairs: House Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on May 25, 2025, to address the escalating crisis in Sudan, focusing on the implications of regional disputes and the treatment of Sudanese refugees. The meeting highlighted the complex interplay between Sudan and its neighbors, particularly Ethiopia and Egypt, amid ongoing territorial tensions.
The discussion began with an examination of the long-standing territorial dispute over Al Feshigah between Sudan and Ethiopia. Experts noted that while tensions had eased somewhat, the underlying issues remain unresolved. Sudan faces not only challenges with Ethiopia but also with South Sudan and Egypt, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address these territorial conflicts. The committee emphasized that any resolution to Sudan's internal strife must involve neighboring countries, as their military involvement could exacerbate the situation.
Concerns were raised about the potential spillover effects of the conflict, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea. The committee warned that these regional dynamics could draw Sudanese communities into broader conflicts, as evidenced during the Tigray conflict, where Sudanese authorities provided assistance. The presence of Eritrean naval forces in Port Sudan further underscored the interconnectedness of these regional conflicts.
The meeting also addressed the plight of Sudanese refugees, particularly in Egypt, where the relationship between the two countries is fraught with tension. Unlike Uganda, which has been praised for its welcoming approach to refugees, Egypt's stance is more contentious. The committee discussed the challenges faced by Sudanese refugees in Egypt, including racism and economic hardships, which have led to a perception that hosting refugees contributes to Egypt's economic difficulties.
Overall, the committee underscored the urgent need for a coordinated international response to the crisis in Sudan, emphasizing that without addressing both internal and external factors, a comprehensive resolution remains elusive. The discussions concluded with a call for increased engagement with regional actors to foster stability and support for affected communities.
The discussion began with an examination of the long-standing territorial dispute over Al Feshigah between Sudan and Ethiopia. Experts noted that while tensions had eased somewhat, the underlying issues remain unresolved. Sudan faces not only challenges with Ethiopia but also with South Sudan and Egypt, necessitating a comprehensive approach to address these territorial conflicts. The committee emphasized that any resolution to Sudan's internal strife must involve neighboring countries, as their military involvement could exacerbate the situation.
Concerns were raised about the potential spillover effects of the conflict, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea. The committee warned that these regional dynamics could draw Sudanese communities into broader conflicts, as evidenced during the Tigray conflict, where Sudanese authorities provided assistance. The presence of Eritrean naval forces in Port Sudan further underscored the interconnectedness of these regional conflicts.
The meeting also addressed the plight of Sudanese refugees, particularly in Egypt, where the relationship between the two countries is fraught with tension. Unlike Uganda, which has been praised for its welcoming approach to refugees, Egypt's stance is more contentious. The committee discussed the challenges faced by Sudanese refugees in Egypt, including racism and economic hardships, which have led to a perception that hosting refugees contributes to Egypt's economic difficulties.
Overall, the committee underscored the urgent need for a coordinated international response to the crisis in Sudan, emphasizing that without addressing both internal and external factors, a comprehensive resolution remains elusive. The discussions concluded with a call for increased engagement with regional actors to foster stability and support for affected communities.
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