Chad Slams Sudan's Military Threats as 'War Declaration'

Chad's condemnation of threats from Sudan's military highlights escalating regional tensions amid ongoing conflict in Sudan.

In a swift and stern response, Chad's foreign ministry has condemned recent remarks from Sudan's Lt-Gen Yasir al-Atta, labeling them a "declaration of war." The threats come amidst escalating tensions linked to Sudan's ongoing civil war, which has stretched from a two-year struggle for power into a severe humanitarian crisis affecting neighboring nations.

Lt-Gen al-Atta, the deputy commander of Sudan's military, claimed that Chad's airports are being utilized by the UAE to deliver arms to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). As Chad is currently hosting hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees, the ministry emphasized that any threat to its territory would trigger a response in accordance with international law.

These events unfold amid allegations that the UAE has been providing support to the RSF, accusations that the UAE denies. The Sudanese military is poised to bring the UAE before the International Court of Justice for its alleged involvement in supporting RSF forces, further complicating the regional dynamic.

During a recent military ceremony commemorating a soldier killed by RSF drones, al-Atta labeled airports in Chad’s N'Djamena and Amdjarass as "legitimate targets." He warned that actions would be retaliated against not just the UAE, but also against Chad and South Sudan, both regions accused of harboring RSF support.

Chad is attempting to maintain a neutral stance amidst the unfolding conflict, highlighting the necessity for a peaceful resolution through dialogue rather than aggressive threats. They noted the humanitarian consequences of the turmoil, as they are caring for a significant influx of Sudanese refugees, primarily from the Darfur region, which is under RSF control.

Complicating the already dire conditions, the RSF has claimed control of al-Malha in Darfur, which serves as a crucial transit point linking Chad and Libya. With reports of carnage and desperation within the town, humanitarian groups are scrambling to provide aid as residents face violence and dire shortages of food and water.

Local activists reported severe restrictions imposed by the RSF, leaving citizens unable to access markets or essential services. Members of the community claim that many of the fatalities stemmed from the violent takeover of the town and that ethnic tensions have exacerbated the crisis.

Analysts believe that the RSF's firm hold over Darfur could lead to a de facto partition of the region, further entrenching the warring factions in their respective territories. Observers caution that continued military confrontations are leading both sides to fortify their defenses rather than seek a resolution, leaving the future of peace far out of reach.