Khartoum:Sudan's defense minister has accused more than 20 countries of being involved in the ongoing war by supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Hassan Daoud Kabroun stated that these countries are providing the RSF with logistical support, mercenaries, funding, and drones. However, he did not specify which countries were allegedly involved.

Kabroun emphasized that the situation in Sudan is not merely a civil war or a power struggle but a comprehensive war aimed at destroying the nation, exploiting its resources, and altering its demographic composition. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF began in April 2023 following disagreements over military force integration, leading to a war that has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of approximately 13 million people.

In a separate statement, Kabroun highlighted Sudan's strategic importance in regional and African security arrangements. He expressed Sudan's intention to join a maritime coalition to protect the Red Sea, which is considered a strategic area for the country. Sudan's coastline spans approximately 800 kilometers along the Red Sea.

Saudi Arabia announced the creation of this maritime coalition on July 30, 2026, aiming to secure navigation, trade, and energy supplies in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Bab al-Mandab Strait. By August 13, 15 countries had signed the coalition's founding declaration, with 13 completing their national procedures to join.

Kabroun also noted the security challenges surrounding Sudan, including weapon proliferation, smuggling, human trafficking, and the presence of rebel movements in neighboring African countries. He mentioned that these cross-border threats have a direct impact on Sudan's security. Previously, security coordination was conducted through joint forces with neighboring countries, but the ongoing war has disrupted these operations.