Hemedti’s Advisor to Asharq Al-Awsat: Al-Burhan is not the Target

 Hemedti’s political advisor, Youssef Ezzat
 Hemedti’s political advisor, Youssef Ezzat
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Hemedti’s Advisor to Asharq Al-Awsat: Al-Burhan is not the Target

 Hemedti’s political advisor, Youssef Ezzat
 Hemedti’s political advisor, Youssef Ezzat

The advisor to the commander of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for political affairs, Youssef Ezzat, said that his forces partially control the general command of the Sudanese armed forces, indicating that the army commander, Lieutenant General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, was “under house arrest”, since the start of the war in Sudan on April 15.

In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Hemedti’s political advisor said: “The Islamists are the ones who planned this war to achieve their goal of returning to power... This will never happen as long as the people are present and as long as there are defenders of their choices.”

On the hand, Ezzat stressed that Al-Burhan was not the RSF’s target, saying: “Al-Burhan is not the target of war... We do not target him in person, but rather his actions. He tried to monopolize power with the Islamists, by turning against his partner and the entire political process...and failed.”

He continued: “He has been under house arrest for more than two months, and he will actually be arrested later.”

According to witnesses, data and field reports, the RSF controls large parts of Khartoum.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that Hemedti was injured in combat, while other reports say that he was killed.

However, Ezzat rejects these claims, saying: “Hemedti’s non-appearance in the media does not mean that he is dead. The recordings that we usually make are not to prove that he is alive or dead, but to put forward things that we deem necessary to address the public opinion and the Sudanese people.”

Ezzat also denied reports indicating that the RSF had lost its popularity and the widespread support of citizens, saying: “These are inaccurate claims.”

He stressed that there were millions of Sudanese standing behind the RSF in order to build “a unified Sudan... and the state of freedom, justice and equality.”



Pakistan FM to Asharq Al-Awsat: Eastern Neighbor’s Ambitions Fueled by Dominance Desire

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar
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Pakistan FM to Asharq Al-Awsat: Eastern Neighbor’s Ambitions Fueled by Dominance Desire

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan enjoy a special relationship with close cooperation on many issues. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar described this bond as deep and long-standing, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s crucial support for Pakistan’s growth and prosperity.

Saudi Arabia hosts 28% of Pakistani expatriates, reflecting the strong ties between the two nations.

Pakistan’s top diplomat, in an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, emphasized the importance of Saudi investments in strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

Dar highlighted shared priorities in promoting stability and addressing security threats in the Middle East, noting that recent security collaborations have further enhanced their ties.

The minister accused India of having expansionist ambitions in South Asia, particularly targeting Pakistan. He expressed concern over India’s growing military imports and its use of military power to intimidate neighboring countries.

Dar also stated that Pakistan will not recognize Israel until a fair resolution for the Palestinians is achieved. He highlighted that recent escalations show the consequences of Israel’s actions and ongoing violations of international law.

The minister stressed the enduring support between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, driven by geographical proximity, religious and cultural ties. Both countries are focused on boosting bilateral trade, surpassing $2.5 billion, and sealing investment deals.

The Saudi Crown Prince had reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to accelerating investment initiatives.

Dar pointed out the regular exchanges between business, civilian, and military leaders of both countries, showing the deep fraternal bond. He stressed the robust economic, political, and defense relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, noting their shared interests.

He emphasized the vital role of Saudi support in Pakistan’s development, saying it strengthens the partnership.

Dar also noted an unprecedented level of bilateral exchanges and hoped the ongoing meetings between Pakistani and Saudi businessmen would benefit Pakistan economically.

The minister emphasized the vital role of Saudi investments in boosting fraternal relations. He expressed Pakistan’s interest in turning this connection into a mutually beneficial economic partnership.

Pakistan sees itself as an attractive market with untapped potential, offering significant benefits to partners.

Both Pakistan and India joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in 2017.

When asked about the SCO’s role in reducing tension, Dar explained that while SCO forums allow member states to discuss common interests, they focus on enhancing multilateral cooperation and don't address bilateral issues.

He mentioned Pakistan’s organization of practical cooperation events as the current chair of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, with participation from India and other member states during 2023-2024.

Dar expressed concerns about India’s expansionist mindset, especially towards Pakistan, and its military buildup to assert dominance in South Asia. He highlighted worries about India’s increasing military imports, which could destabilize the region and upset strategic balance.