Chad has issued a strong condemnation of a senior Sudanese general’s recent threat to target its airports, labeling it a “declaration of war.” The foreign ministry of Chad has emphasized that it will respond in accordance with international law if even a small portion of its territory is endangered.
The remarks from Chad come in response to Lieutenant General Yasir al-Atta, the deputy commander of Sudan’s armed forces, who accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of utilizing Chad’s airports to supply weapons to the paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which has persisted for two years, has created a dire humanitarian crisis, drawing international attention.
International implications and accusations
The Sudanese army has repeatedly claimed that the UAE is providing support to the RSF, leading to these accusations being described as “credible” by UN experts. However, the UAE has categorically denied these allegations. The tensions escalated after Sudan announced its intention to bring the UAE before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for its purported involvement with the RSF.
“We know what we are saying, and our words are not a joke at all, nor are they spoken lightly,” Lt-Gen Atta warned.
During a recent memorial service for an army officer killed in a drone strike by the RSF, Lt-Gen Atta declared airports in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, and the eastern city of Amdjarass as “legitimate targets.” Furthermore, he stated that retaliatory measures would be directed not only at the UAE but also at Chad’s President Mahamat Déby and South Sudan.
The humanitarian crisis deepens
Chad has attempted to maintain a neutral stance amidst the conflict. However, the heightened rhetoric underscores the escalating regional instability exacerbated by Sudan’s civil war and the involvement of external actors. Chad’s government highlighted its commitment to humanitarian principles, noting the country is currently hosting hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees, primarily from the conflict-stricken region of Darfur, which is largely under RSF control.
As the RSF continues to make territorial gains, claiming to have taken the town of al-Malha in Darfur, the situation on the ground remains precarious. Reports indicate that the RSF has encircled the town, leading to significant casualties among local populations, including merchants from the Zaghawa community, which supports the Sudanese army.
Local activists reported severe humanitarian conditions in al-Malha post-RSF takeover, with essential services like hospitals and markets rendered inoperative. Some residents are compelled to seek refuge in remote areas, relying on the precarious support of nomadic herders.
Analysts suggest that the RSF is determined to solidify its dominance in Darfur following recent setbacks for the Sudanese army, which is gradually reclaiming control over key locations in the capital, Khartoum. The ongoing conflict raises concerns regarding a possible de facto partition of Sudan, as both factions entrench themselves in their respective territories.