Chad strongly denounced a threat made by a senior Sudanese general to target its airports, labeling it as a „declaration of war.“ The foreign ministry vowed to respond in accordance with international law if any part of Chadian territory is endangered. This warning came after Lt-Gen Yasir al-Atta claimed that the UAE was utilizing Chad’s airports to supply weapons to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The Sudanese army has accused the UAE of supporting the RSF, a rival group, during the devastating civil war. Despite UN experts finding the accusations of UAE smuggling weapons through Chad to be credible, the UAE has denied involvement. Lt-Gen Atta’s remarks came after Sudan’s decision to take the UAE to the International Court of Justice over alleged support to the RSF. He threatened retaliatory action against the UAE, South Sudan, and Chad’s President Mahamat Déby. South Sudan has also been accused of supporting the RSF, although it denies involvement in the conflict. Lt-Gen Atta’s warnings reflect the Sudanese army’s frustration with neighboring countries accused of allowing their territories to be used as supply routes for the RSF. Sudan’s defence ministry previously stated that weapons supplied included strategic drones carrying guided missiles. Chad, while positioning itself as neutral, highlighted the regional instability arising from Sudan’s civil war and external involvement. The escalating tensions underscore the urgent need for dialogue and cessation of hostilities, especially considering Chad’s role in hosting Sudanese refugees. The exchange of harsh words occurred as the RSF claimed to have taken control of al-Malha in Darfur, a town crucial for trade routes between Chad and Libya. This town also serves as a vital passageway to el-Fasher, the last state capital in Darfur under army control but besieged by the RSF for almost a year. Chad’s President Mahamat Déby affirmed neutrality in the conflict in neighboring Sudan, emphasizing the importance of peaceful dialogue for a lasting solution. Nach Monaten des Kampfes mit einer Koalition bewaffneter Gruppen, die dem sudanesischen Militär verbündet sind und als Joint Forces bekannt sind, hinterließen sie 380 Tote,“.
