Chad Labels Sudan's Airport Threat as an Act of War

Chad's foreign ministry condemned Sudanese military threats to target its airports, heightening fears of potential military confrontation amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan.

Chad has taken a strong stand against the recent threats made by Sudanese military officials, categorizing them as a "declaration of war." This statement came from Chad’s foreign ministry following comments from Lt-Gen Yasir al-Atta, who threatened to target Chadian airports, alleging that they are being utilized by the UAE to deliver weapons to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) amid Sudan's enduring civil conflict.

The Sudanese army has consistently accused the UAE of backing the RSF, which has exacerbated the humanitarian disaster resulting from two years of brutal warfare. Despite the allegations being labeled "credible" by UN experts, the UAE has refuted these claims. Lt-Gen al-Atta's comments are particularly alarming as they coincide with Sudan's decision to bring the UAE before the International Court of Justice over its involvement with the RSF.

Addressing an audience while commemorating an army officer killed in action, al-Atta declared airports in N’Djamena and Amdjarass as "legitimate targets," threatening retaliatory measures against the UAE, South Sudan, and Chad’s President Mahamat Déby. South Sudan has similarly faced accusations of supporting the RSF but denies any involvement.

In a diplomatic response, Chad emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging Sudanese authorities to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at resolving the conflict. According to Chad, the nation continues to host significant numbers of Sudanese refugees fleeing the ongoing violence, especially from the Darfur region, which remains predominantly under RSF control.

The tenor of exchanges illustrates a deepening regional instability rooted in Sudan's civil war, complicated by the influence of external parties. The RSF recently claimed to have seized the strategic town of al-Malha, crucial for trade routes, leading to an intensified humanitarian crisis marked by shortages of essentials like water and medical care for displaced residents.

Local activists reported that RSF forces imposed a lockdown after taking control, preventing the escape of civilians while inflicting heavy casualties on the population. As both the Sudanese army and RSF continue to vie for dominance, the potential for a regional conflagration looms, highlighting the importance of international mediation and support for the beleaguered populations caught in the conflict.