Sudan Accuses Chad of Supplying Arms to Rebel Militias Amid Ongoing Conflict
Sudan’s government has accused Chad of supplying arms to rebel militias amid ongoing conflict. Minister Muawiya Osman announced the complaint to the African Union, demanding compensation for the harm caused to Sudanese citizens. Chad has denied these allegations, asserting its commitment to peace and humanitarian aid is being delivered through the Adre border crossing, which Sudan is set to determine on extending soon.
On Tuesday, the government of Sudan, backed by its military, lodged a formal complaint with the African Union, accusing the neighboring nation of Chad of supplying arms to rebel militias amidst ongoing conflict. This allegation arises amid a brutal war that has engulfed Sudan since April 2023, characterized by violent clashes between the regular army, commanded by Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. Justice Minister Muawiya Osman stated that the Sudanese government seeks compensation for the purported harm to its citizens resulting from Chad’s actions. Osman emphasized the assertion that evidence will be provided to the relevant authorities. This announcement was made in Port Sudan, where President Burhan has relocated following the escalation of violence in the capital, Khartoum. In response to these allegations, the Chadian government has denied any involvement in arming the RSF, asserting that it supports peace rather than any faction involved in the Sudanese conflict. Chad’s Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah clearly stated that the country does not endorse any groups fighting within Sudan. The United Nations continues to provide humanitarian assistance through the Adre border crossing, a route that Sudan initially agreed to keep open for three months, with the existing arrangement set to expire on November 15. However, officials in Khartoum have yet to announce a decision regarding the extension of this aid. The protracted conflict in Sudan has resulted in the tragic loss of tens of thousands of lives and has displaced more than 11 million individuals, with approximately 3.1 million seeking refuge beyond Sudan’s borders.
The conflict in Sudan has been intensifying since April 2023, following violent confrontations between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF. The RSF emerged as a powerful group, previously part of the government forces under Dagalo. The situation has led to significant humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and basic services disrupted. Chad’s geographic proximity to Sudan places it in a contentious position, as allegations of external support to rebel factions exacerbate the tensions in the region. Diplomatic efforts, such as those by the African Union and the United Nations, aim to stabilize the situation and coordinate humanitarian responses.
In conclusion, the accusations by Sudan against Chad highlight the complex and escalating nature of the conflict in Northeast Africa. As Sudan navigates its internal strife and seeks accountability from its neighbors, the international community remains attentive to the humanitarian implications of this war. The situation underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability in the region, especially with millions of lives at stake.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
