RSF in Saudi Arabia bans social media posts after video controversy

May 5, 2024 (RIYADH) – The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) introduced a strict social media ban on Saturday, prohibiting military personnel in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from posting photos or videos in uniform.

The new regulations, seen by Sudan Tribune and distributed to all RSF members in Saudi Arabia, impose a categorical ban on taking photos in military fatigues and sharing any graphic content on social media platforms.

The ban is a direct response to a widely circulated video showing RSF members in Saudi Arabia threatening to attack the Sudanese city of Port Sudan, across the Red Sea.

Sudan asks for clarification

The Sudanese Foreign Ministry summoned Saudi Ambassador Ali bin Jaafar to discuss the controversial video. While details of the meeting have not yet been disclosed, the ministry reportedly asked for clarification on the content of the clip.

According to the State Department, Ambassador bin Jaafar downplayed the significance of the video, saying it was made four months ago and documented a routine training exercise for RSF troops in the Yemen conflict. He further claimed that the training did not include specific military activities such as artillery exercises, marches or medical interventions.