Since the onset of clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces in mid-April, the Saudi Foreign Ministry has declared the effective evacuation of more than 5,000 individuals from 100 nations, among them 184 Saudi citizens.
Regarded as one of the world’s largest and most successful evacuation undertakings, this operation has brought significant regional and global recognition to the Royal Saudi Navy.
Over the past few days, the Saudi navy has garnered widespread attention for its effective collaboration with different armed forces branches in rescuing thousands of stranded individuals seeking refuge from the sudden conflict in Sudan.
The Saudi Royal Navy’s humanitarian evacuation operations are not a first, according to Rear Admiral Fuaz Kaseb, who highlighted the navy’s previous participation in the distribution of aid in Somalia for three years under UN auspices.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Kaseb affirmed that the Royal Saudi Navy is highly trained and qualified to work on islands and beaches, safeguard critical oil and vital installations, including offshore platforms, military bases, and civilian facilities.
“The military doctrine of the Saudi Navy is distinguished by its practical training in hostage rescue, evacuation operations, aid delivery, as well as interception of any form of human trafficking and smuggling,” said Kaseb.
Saudi Ambassador in Khartoum Ali Jaafar commented on the extensive evacuation operations and said: “Saudi Arabia, the kingdom of humanity, has always led countries in facilitating humanitarian work whenever there is a need.”
“The embassy is in contact with all parties to ensure the safe arrival of convoys,” confirmed Jaafar, adding that the Saudi taskforce is acting on the directives of King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman.
Footage revealed Saudi special forces stationed at the Port Sudan harbor, providing aid and security to individuals stuck at the port, including regular citizens and diplomats, before boarding them onto Saudi military vessels and frigates bound for Jeddah.
