Rhino: Agencies – The Abu Dhabi Ports Group issued a decision on Thursday prohibiting the issuance of sailing licenses for ships belonging to the Port Sudan Authority from docking at its maritime ports. The decision also prohibits the movement of maritime commercial goods amidst an escalating diplomatic crisis between the two countries.

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure issued a decision banning all its ports and terminals from handling any goods or containers coming from or going to Port Sudan, whether for import or export, including transshipment. According to the decision, the UAE will prohibit the issuance of sailing permits for ships flying its flag to Port Sudan.

The decision comes in compliance with the national directive of the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, and also aligns with the strategic interests of the United Arab Emirates, according to Abu Dhabi Ports Group.

The UAE suspended flights of Sudanese airlines to and from Sudan starting Wednesday, August 6, in response to accusations from the Port Sudan Foreign Ministry of supporting the Rapid Support Forces and classifying it as an aggressor state.