Chad Condemns Sudanese Threats, Urges Peace Amid Regional Instability
Chad condemns Sudan’s military threat to its airports as a potential declaration of war. This follows Sudanese allegations that the UAE is providing weapons to the RSF via Chad. Humanitarian crises deepen as regional conflicts persist, highlighting urgent calls for peace and dialogue.
Chad has issued a strong condemnation of a threat made by Sudanese General Lt-Gen Yasir al-Atta, who stated that Chad’s airports could be targeted. The Chadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarded the threat as a “declaration of war” and declared its intent to respond in accordance with international law regarding any threat to its territory. This remark is rooted in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has led to serious humanitarian crises.
The tensions have arisen from the Sudanese army’s accusations against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for allegedly supplying arms to the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), using Chad’s airports. Despite credible reports from UN experts, the UAE has denied these allegations. Lt-Gen al-Atta announced Sudan’s intention to take legal action against the UAE at the International Court of Justice for its purported support of the RSF.
During a recent event commemorating an army officer killed by RSF drone attacks, Lt-Gen al-Atta labeled the airports in Chad as “legitimate targets” and threatened retaliation against Chad and South Sudan. He emphasized that his statements were serious and not made lightly. The Sudanese military perceives external nations as complicit in the ongoing conflict, further complicating regional stability.
Chad has tried to maintain a neutral stance throughout the civil war in Sudan, which has been marred by external influences and continued violence. The minister stressed the necessity for cessation of hostilities and immediate dialogue to seek a peaceful resolution, noting Chad’s humanitarian efforts, as it accommodates hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees.
Recently, the RSF reported seizing control of the town al-Malha in Darfur. This event is strategic as it disrupts key trade routes and has resulted in significant flight and displacement of the local population. Local activists reported dire humanitarian conditions in al-Malha following the RSF’s takeover, with essential services failing to function and residents lacking access to food and water.
Reports indicate casualties between 35 to 48, with some residents unable to contact family members due to communication blackouts instituted by the RSF. Accounts of those who fled indicated considerable hardship, with many seeking refuge among more hospitable areas or with nomadic communities. The RSF’s actions reflect an effort to consolidate its control over parts of Darfur amidst the backdrop of ongoing conflict with the Sudanese army.
Analysts suggest that while the RSF faces military setbacks, it remains a significant threat in the region, especially concerning its intentions in Khartoum, where it continues to clash with Sudanese armed forces. Both the army and RSF are entrenched in their respective positions, leading to fears of a de-facto partition of Sudan as both groups secure their zones of influence.
In summary, Chad has expressed grave concerns over threats from Sudan, perceiving them as a declaration of war, while highlighting the humanitarian crisis resulting from ongoing conflicts. The accusations involving the UAE’s alleged support of the RSF further complicate the situation. The humanitarian conditions in conflict-affected areas continue to deteriorate, showcasing the urgent need for dialogue and peace, as regional stability hangs in the balance.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
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