Al-Burhan Rejects Foreign Pressure, Denies Special Ties With Iran

Doha – Sudan’s army chief, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has issued sharp criticism of unnamed foreign actors whom he accused of applying pressure on Sudan through what he called “scare tactics.”

Speaking to Sudanese media in Doha, Burhan said one of those tactics was the repeated use of the “Islamist card,” which he dismissed as baseless and merely a tool to achieve narrow political goals.

He acknowledged that Islamists, like other Sudanese citizens, are fighting alongside the armed forces but stressed that partisan activity is prohibited within the military institution. Individual beliefs, regardless of their orientation, he said, are neither banned nor subject to outside interference.

Turning to Sudan’s relations with Iran, Burhan described speculation of a deepening partnership as another “scarecrow” aimed at swaying international opinion. He insisted that Khartoum’s ties with Tehran are no different from its relations with any other state, firmly denying the presence of Iranian military bases or special privileges on Sudanese soil.

Burhan underlined that Sudan’s foreign policy is guided by the principle of equality and reciprocity, ensuring national interests and mutual benefits. He reiterated that Sudan will not join any regional or international alliance that runs counter to its national interests.