Senior officials from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group engaged in the Sudanese civil war, are reported to have made multiple covert trips to Israel amid the ongoing conflict. An investigation by Africa Intelligence has shed light on these high-profile visits, suggesting that the connections between these two entities could have implications for the geopolitical landscape in the region.
Covert Delegations to Israel
According to Africa Intelligence, two distinct delegations associated with the RSF traveled to Tel Aviv, one in May 2025 and the other in February 2026. During these trips, the RSF officials reportedly engaged with individuals from the Africa Division of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs and various intelligence representatives. The first delegation reportedly included Abdul Rahim Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF’s second-in-command and brother of the group’s leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti. The second visit in February saw Dagalo and his family member, Algoney Hamdan Dagalo, returning alongside the organization’s legal adviser.
Historical Context and Security Ties
These diplomatic engagements reportedly predate the civil war that erupted in April 2023. The relationship spans a broader framework of security and intelligence collaborations, as outlined by Africa Intelligence. Allegations include technological and surveillance equipment transfers to RSF affiliates, suggesting a longstanding connection that goes beyond current hostilities. However, it’s crucial to note that these claims have not been officially confirmed by Israeli authorities, and there is no concrete evidence indicating that Israel provided any military support to the RSF during the conflict.
Human Rights Concerns and International Scrutiny
The timing of these revelations has heightened interest, especially given the serious accusations leveled against the RSF regarding human rights abuses in Sudan, particularly within the Darfur region. Investigative reports have cited atrocities including massacres, sexual violence, and forced disappearances, which the RSF has vehemently denied. Abdel Rahim Dagalo himself faces international sanctions due to his alleged involvement in these violent acts.
The RSF’s connections extend to the United Arab Emirates as well, which has frequently been accused of supporting the paramilitary group—a claim that Abu Dhabi consistently refutes. This web of alliances and accusations complicates the already intricate diplomatic landscape surrounding the Sudanese civil conflict.
If confirmed, the interactions between RSF officials and Israeli representatives would highlight a complex network of unofficial diplomatic relations amid ongoing allegations of human rights violations. Such dynamics underscore the complicated reality of international relations in conflict zones, where strategic partnerships often develop regardless of ethical considerations related to human rights.
In a world where geopolitical boundaries continually shift, understanding the nuances of these connections could be vital for navigating future conflicts and exploring avenues for conflict resolution in the Sudanese context.