Sudan has strongly criticized South Sudan’s call for a UN and AU investigation into alleged war crimes, asserting it would take measures against Juba. Accusations between the two nations have intensified, with Sudan refuting claims of terrorism by its forces and highlighting their own investigation into the incidents. The deteriorating relations between Sudan and South Sudan remain strained due to historical conflicts and evolving tensions.
Sudan has condemned South Sudan’s recent demand for a United Nations and African Union investigation into alleged war crimes, asserting that it will adopt “appropriate measures” against Juba’s actions, which it perceives as exacerbating already fragile relations. This diplomatic rift arose after South Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ramadan Abdallah, accused the Sudanese military of committing acts of terrorism and killing South Sudanese citizens amid ongoing discussions in New York.
The Sudanese Foreign Ministry quickly dismissed these charges as “unjustified,” highlighting that Khartoum had already initiated its own inquiry into purported incidents occurring in Al Jazeera state following the seizure of Madani by the Sudanese army on January 11. Sudan’s officials expressed frustration at Juba’s behavior, claiming they have demonstrated excessive patience despite reports of South Sudanese mercenary involvement with the Rapid Support Forces fighting against Sudanese troops.
Additionally, Sudan accused South Sudan of neglecting its responsibility to prevent the recruitment of mercenaries and facilitating the Rapid Support Forces, including providing medical assistance to their wounded. The Sudanese Foreign Ministry alleged that retaliatory violence against Sudanese citizens in South Sudan has escalated, with incidents of killing, assault, and looting reportedly occurring, including targeted attacks on Sudanese diplomatic personnel.
Following allegations against the Sudanese military, violence in South Sudan resulted in the deaths of sixteen Sudanese citizens, including a doctor. In light of this, the Sudanese government indicated it would pursue necessary actions to defend its rights and those of its citizens through international channels.
The exchanges of accusations suggest a significant decline in relations between Sudan and South Sudan, which had already been strained since South Sudan attained independence from Sudan in 2011 after a prolonged civil conflict. The ongoing conflict that erupted in Sudan in April 2023 has further complicated the delicate relationship between the two nations.
The tensions between Sudan and South Sudan have roots in a history of conflict that spans decades. After South Sudan separated from Sudan in 2011, the two countries have faced numerous challenges, including border disputes, resource sharing, and internal strife. The recent conflict in Sudan has exacerbated these issues, resulting in mutual accusations and increasing hostilities that threaten the stability and security of the region.
The ongoing dispute between Sudan and South Sudan over war crimes allegations illustrates the deteriorating diplomatic relations and the complex historical context that shapes their interactions. As both countries navigate this conflict, the situation remains precarious, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to prevent further escalation.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
