The Hala’ib Triangle or the Halayeb Triangle dispute is one of the ongoing 21st century conflicts lesser known to the world. The conflict arose out of territorial disputes between the Arab Republic of Egypt and The Republic of the Sudan. The African continent has several conflicts which have multiple resolutions written and passed on them but the conflict in question is one of the very few where the UN has never passed a significant resolutions and that is because of the fact that the countries in question are very strong allies and partners of the west , especially Egypt.
Base and Conflict origins- In the year 1902 the British drew an administrative boundary between Sudan and Egypt after taking control of the region in early 1899. There was a so called “period of peace” and mutual understanding in the region up until Sudan gained its independence in the year 1956 and laid sovereign claims on the lands demarcated under the Halayeb Triangle.
The conflict arose when Egypt laid claims on the disputed territory based on the borders drawn in 1899 and Sudan on the contrary referred to the one drawn in 1902 to put forth it’s stance in the region. The first signs of active conflict could be trace to as back as in the year 1958 when The Sudanese government decided to act upon it’s wish to hold elections in the Triangle and in retaliation Egypt sent its armed troops to the region to thwart the same.
There was a second period of peace up until the year 1992, during which both the sovereigns exercise control of the region to mutually cooperate. But when Sudan tied up with a Canadian Oil company to explore the coastal areas of the disputed region, tensions rose to an all-time high culminating in a failed assassination attempt on the then Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.
In the early 2000’s Sudan withdrew its troops from the region and Egypt assumed de facto control. Yet the conflict never seemed to cease, evident from Sudanese President Omer Hussain’s statements in 2010 and the standoff in 2013.
The Halayeb Triangle despite being under Egyptian control is still to date claimed upon by Sudan leading to ongoing border disputes. The African continent is influenced heavily still by colonial countries and their actions contrary to popular opinions and this is one of the conflicts which exist primarily due to the vested interests of parties not even directly involved or present in the region but because of only two needs- control and power.
The Significance of Halayeb Triangle
The Halayeb triangle is a coastal area along the red sea in the northeastern Sudan. It has a triangular shape, with one side measuring 200 km along the Red Sea coast from south of Halayeb to Bir Shalatin. The other side runs from the well of Shalatin southwest toward Umm al-Tuyur Mountain. The Halayeb triangle is strategically located in the red sea, making it an ideal spot for trade. It acts as a crucial site for overseeing and blocking any maritime incursions or land movements between Sudan and Egypt. It is also abundant in minerals resources such as manganese, iron, phosphate and gold. The Egyptian and Sudan Borders were established in 1899 under the Anglo-Egyptian agreement, which defined the northern boundary of Sudan. This border extends in a straight line from the Red Sea coast to Al-Uwaynat in the west, delineating the Sudanese border triangle.
Contemporary Situation
Persistent tensions between Egypt and Sudan are creating instability throughout the region, with territorial disputes impacting economic and political matters. The aggressive rhetoric and the authoritarian characteristics of the ruling regimes heighten the risk of escalating confrontations and make a border clash more likely in the future. While disputes over the Egyptian-Sudanese border have been ongoing for years, tensions have recently escalated, with both Cairo and Khartoum implementing punitive measures. Relations are currently far from the peak reached in 2004 with the signing of the Four Freedoms agreement, which permitted citizens to travel, work, live, and own property in either country without permits. Tensions reached a high point in late 2016 when Sudan banned all Egyptian agricultural imports, citing vague safety concerns. This ban significantly affected Egypt, as Sudan had imported $591 million worth of agricultural goods from Egypt in 2016 prior to the September ban. The decision coincided with a surge in Egyptian agricultural imports following the devaluation of the Egyptian pound, which effectively halved prices. Seven months after the initial ban, with businesses facing standstills and traders stranded at the border, Sudan has not yet clarified the specific issues related to Egyptian imports. In the meantime, local and international companies, such as Saudi Arabia’s Savola Group, have found themselves in a difficult position. Savola has had to reroute a large part of its sugar production from Egypt—usually destined for Sudan—to alternative markets. Ironically, Savola processes raw sugar from Brazil in Egypt and exports it throughout the region, meaning the banned agricultural products aren’t even sourced from Egypt. In retaliation, Egypt has accused Sudan of trying to tarnish its reputation through these actions. Furthermore, Cario and Khartoum have entered into a reciprocal conflict as the issue of halayeb triangle comes into focus. Although Egypt governs the area, both nation asserts their claims, resulting in ongoing tensions between the two countries. Sudan’s action to some extent might have political motivations, but the Halayeb Triangle dispute might also serve to restrict the influx of less expensive Egyptian goods into its market. History plays a crucial rule in the dispute, with Egyptian media and government officials openly mocking the Sudan claiming to be an old civilization. Additionally, Sudan’s pyramids have faced mockery on Egyptian social media and late-night television. Also Recently, Egypt expelled two Sudanese journalists who advocated for Sudan’s position regarding the Halayeb issue, Al Tahir Satti stated that Egypt does not recognize Sudan as an independent nation capable of making its own decisions. In his column, he described the Egyptian authorities in the Halayeb region as an “occupying force.”
Geopolitical scenario
Maintaining the unity of Sudan is vital for Egypt’s own integrity, particularly from a strategic viewpoint. Differences and changes have impeded the growth of strategic relations between the two countries, despite having all the elements needed for success. Their historical connections qualify them to establish treaties and strategic alliances. The two nations have shared significant ties, having been united during various periods, from the time of the Pharaohs through the Middle Ages, during Muhammad Ali’s reign, and even under the dual governance of Egypt until 1956. As a result, their bilateral relations cannot be viewed as normal due to their intertwined history, geographical realities, and cultural and human interactions. It’s important that this relationship is founded on a national basis, irrespective of the ruling regimes. Furthermore, the geopolitical and strategic aspects of this relationship must be acknowledged. Given the Nile’s importance to Egypt, the relationship with Sudan should be based on mutual exchange and shared interests to ensure the flow of Nile waters, which also bolsters Sudan’s unity. In turn, Sudan should recognize its strong Arab ties in relation to neighboring countries to effectively tackle challenges from other African nations and mitigate their effects, which have contributed to weaknesses in the Sudanese state.
The are situated along the border between Egypt and Sudan, holds significant geopolitical importance. Covering about 20,000 square kilometers, this region is strategically located near key maritime routes in the Red Sea, making it crucial for both countries regarding military logistics, resource management, and regional influence. This overview examines the military infrastructure and capabilities of Egypt and Sudan within the Halayeb Triangle.
Geographic and Strategic Importance
The Halayeb Triangle is not merely a piece of land; it is a strategic asset. Its location near essential maritime routes enhances both nations’ ability to monitor and secure their borders. Control of this area allows for better military oversight and potential access to natural resources, including minerals and fisheries, which further amplifies its value.
What’s the role of military?
The military infrastructure and capabilities in the Halayeb Triangle illustrate the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Egypt and Sudan. Both nations have invested in military resources to assert their claims and protect their interests in this strategically vital region. Egypt, with its superior military capabilities, maintains a strong presence, while Sudan, despite its limitations, strives to enhance its military position. The Halayeb Triangle remains a focal point of contention, and both countries are likely to continue reinforcing their military infrastructure in response to each other’s activities. This ongoing rivalry highlights the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve disputes and promote stability in the region.
Current Situation and Future Solutions for the Halayeb Triangle and what is the path forward?
The Halayeb Triangle remains a contentious issue between Egypt and Sudan, characterized by military buildup and rising tensions. Both nations have increased their military presence in the region, with Egypt utilizing specialized forces and advanced surveillance systems, while Sudan has strengthened its military bases and deployed Rapid Support Forces. This ongoing standoff affects not just their bilateral relations but also the stability of the wider region, especially as both countries face internal challenges and external pressures.
Recent diplomatic efforts have fallen short, as neither side has made significant progress in resolving the Halayeb dispute. Each country continues to assert its claims, often escalating rhetoric that breeds further animosity. It is essential for both Egypt and Sudan to reevaluate their approaches to break this cycle of tension.
To find a resolution, both countries need to prioritize diplomatic discussions over military confrontations. Creating a bilateral committee dedicated to defining borders and addressing shared concerns could serve as a positive starting point for dialogue. Additionally, involving regional organizations like the African Union could facilitate mediation, offering a neutral space for negotiations.
Focusing on economic cooperation presents another opportunity for peace. By identifying common interests, such as managing water resources and boosting trade, both nations can cultivate a sense of interdependence that encourages stability. Collaborative projects in agriculture and infrastructure can also help build trust and foster goodwill.
Ultimately, a lasting solution will require Egypt and Sudan to recognize their historical connections and work toward a framework that honors each other’s sovereignty while promoting regional unity. By fostering open dialogue, addressing underlying issues, and focusing on mutual benefits, both countries can lay the groundwork for a more peaceful relationship in the Halayeb Triangle.
Author : Adwitiyo Das
Research Scholar St. Joseph’s University Bangalore
1st Year BA in International Relations and Peace Studies, Public Policy and Journalism
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