Chad Condemns Sudan’s Airport Threat Amid Civil War Tensions
Chad has condemned Sudanese General Yasir al-Atta’s threat to target its airports, interpreting it as a “declaration of war.” Chad’s foreign ministry insists it will respond legally to any territorial threats. The backdrop involves accusations against the UAE for supplying weapons to the RSF and increasing regional instability driven by the ongoing civil war in Sudan.
Chad’s government has expressed strong condemnation of a threat made by a senior Sudanese general, labeling it a “declaration of war.” This statement from Chad’s foreign ministry underscores its commitment to respond according to international law should any part of its territory face a threat. This declaration arises from accusations that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is using Chad’s airports to supply weapons to the paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Lieutenant General Yasir al-Atta of Sudan’s army has accused the UAE of repeatedly facilitating support for the RSF during the ongoing civil war, which has created a severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Despite United Nations experts deeming the UAE’s arms supply allegations as credible, the UAE has categorically denied these accusations. This tension is further exacerbated as Sudan has initiated legal proceedings against the UAE at the International Court of Justice concerning its alleged support for the RSF.
Speaking at a recent memorial for an officer killed by the RSF, Lt-Gen al-Atta declared that airports in Chad would henceforth be considered valid targets for retaliation. He also named President Mahamat Déby of Chad, along with South Sudan, as entities that would face consequences for their purported collaboration with the RSF. South Sudan, on its part, has refuted allegations of siding with any factions in the conflict.
Lt-Gen al-Atta cautioned that his remarks should not be taken lightly, emphasizing the urgency for a constructive dialogue to cease hostilities. Chad has maintained a neutral stance, hosting a significant number of Sudanese refugees from the conflict-stricken Darfur region, under RSF control. The ongoing exchanges highlight the increasing regional instability and complexities introduced by external forces amid Sudan’s civil unrest.
In related developments, the RSF has reported its capture of al-Malha in Darfur, a critical trade nexus between Chad and Libya. The group claims it has effectively surrounded its adversaries, leading to numerous fatalities and asserting that it aims to end the conflict for the benefit of the Sudanese populace. Local activists coordinating humanitarian relief have reported severe restrictions and shortages of essential services in the wake of the RSF’s control.
Eyewitness accounts describe market devastation and a lack of basic resources such as water and food, intensifying the humanitarian crisis for those displaced by the violence. The RSF is viewed as seeking to reinforce its dominance in Darfur while the Sudanese army continues its offensive to reclaim key areas, underscoring the precarious balance of power within the country.
As the conflict persists, there are growing concerns regarding potential partitioning of Sudan, with each faction entrenching itself further into its respective territorial claims, which could prolong the violence and instability.
The situation between Chad and Sudan illustrates the escalating tensions resulting from threats exchanged amid the ongoing civil war. Chad’s condemnation of Sudan’s threats signals its readiness to protect its sovereignty while acknowledging the complex regional dynamics influenced by external actors like the UAE. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen as violence escalates, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and resolution to prevent further desolation in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
Post Comment