In brief
In an escalating conflict, Chad's foreign ministry has issued a stern condemnation of threats made by a Sudanese military leader against its airports, labeling it as a declaration of war, amid ongoing turmoil and refugee influx from Sudan.
Chad has reacted firmly to a threatening statement by Lt-Gen Yasir al-Atta, the deputy commander of Sudan's army, who indicated that Chad’s airports could be targeted due to alleged arms smuggling linked to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Chad's foreign ministry emphasized that it would defend its territory in accordance with international law should it face any aggression. This warning comes on the heels of Sudan's decision to file a case against the UAE at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over suspicions of aiding the RSF.Al-Atta mentioned that airports in Chad’s capital N'Djamena and the eastern city of Amdjarass are now "legitimate targets" for the Sudanese army. He declared intentions for "retaliatory action" against nations allegedly aiding the RSF, including Chad and South Sudan, the latter which also stands accused of supporting the paramilitary group but has denied the claims.The Sudanese army's accusations against the UAE of smuggling weapons through Chad have been deemed credible by UN experts, although the UAE has rejected these assertions. The Sudanese military's frustrations are now directed not just at the UAE, but also at neighboring countries that they claim facilitate supply routes for the RSF. Chad, currently hosting a significant number of Sudanese refugees fleeing the war, has attempted to maintain neutrality, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue rather than conflict. Amid this backdrop, the RSF has reported seizing critical territory in Darfur, intensifying the humanitarian crisis as local populations suffer from cut off supplies and basic services.Local activists relay accounts of desperate conditions as RSF forces confiscate essential supplies, with reports of civilians trapped and the healthcare infrastructure severely compromised. The ongoing conflict has led to numerous casualties and further displacement, raising alarms about the deepening instability in the region.As the Sudanese army moves to reclaim key sites and consolidate its power following recent gains, fears of a permanent division in the nation grow, complicating the search for a peaceful resolution amidst rising tensions and alignments of international and regional actors. Analysts warn that entrenched positions could signal a grim future for Sudan as both sides dig in for a prolonged battle.
