Chad has condemned a Sudanese general’s threat to target its airports as a declaration of war, asserting it will respond per international law. The threat follows accusations against the UAE for supplying weapons to the paramilitary RSF through Chad. The RSF claims territorial gains in Darfur, while Chad remains neutral amidst rising regional tensions.
Chad has officially denounced a senior Sudanese general’s threat concerning its airports, labeling it a “declaration of war.” The Chadian foreign ministry indicated that it would respond in accordance with international law should any part of its territory be jeopardized. This condemnation follows remarks by Lt-Gen Yasir al-Atta, deputy commander of Sudan’s military, who accused the UAE of utilizing Chad’s airports for arms deliveries to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The accusations stem from ongoing tensions, as the Sudanese army has persistently claimed that the UAE is providing support to the RSF amid the ongoing civil conflict, which has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region. United Nations experts have deemed the allegations of UAE’s weapon smuggling through Chad as credible, although the UAE has dismissed these claims. Lt-Gen Atta’s statements coincide with Sudan seeking measures against the UAE at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its alleged actions regarding the RSF.
During a commemoration for a fallen officer, Lt-Gen Atta noted that airports in N’Djamena and Amdjarass are considered “legitimate targets” for retaliation against Chad and mentioned that action would be taken against the UAE and South Sudan. Notably, South Sudan also faces accusations of supporting the RSF but has denied involvement. Lt-Gen Atta firmly stated, “We know what we are saying, and our words are not a joke…”
Chad has tried to maintain a neutral stance amidst these escalating tensions, which reflect the broader instability resultant from the Sudanese civil war involving external actors. Chad’s government urged Lt-Gen Atta to cease making imprudent remarks and instead focus on ending hostilities and pursuing lasting peace, emphasizing its responsibility in hosting a large number of Sudanese refugees. The RSF has been advancing in Darfur, claiming strategic victories and besieging significant towns that are key to the conflict’s logistics.
Amidst these developments, humanitarian organizations report severe hardships suffered by civilians in areas controlled by the RSF, including a complete shutdown of local services and a lack of basic necessities. Observers are concerned that the RSF is seeking to fortify its control in Darfur while the Sudanese army claims significant territorial gains in other central regions, particularly in Khartoum. The ongoing battles risk creating a de facto partition of Sudan, with both sides entrenched in their respective zones of influence.
Chad’s condemnation of Sudan’s threats highlights a critical escalation in regional tensions fueled by the ongoing civil war in Sudan. The Sudanese army’s accusations against external players like the UAE and South Sudan, coupled with retaliatory threats, illustrate the complexity of the conflict. Despite Chad’s neutral position, the situation remains volatile, stressing the urgent need for dialogue and conflict resolution to alleviate the humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Observers express concerns about potential territorial divisions that could further complicate Sudan’s future.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
