Chad has closed its border with Sudan in an effort to maintain neutrality and prevent the country’s devastating conflict from spilling into its territory.
The war between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has continued for three years, leaving tens of thousands dead and forcing more than 12 million people from their homes, according to the United Nations. Nearly one million Sudanese refugees have fled into Chad.
Violence has intensified in Darfur, which borders Chad and is now largely under RSF control after the fall of Al Fasher in October.
The border closure follows a series of RSF operations near the frontier. On February 21, the group claimed to have captured the border town of Al Tina, opposite the Chadian town of Al Tine.
Since December, attacks near the border have reportedly killed 15 Chadian soldiers and eight civilians.
Communications Minister Gassim Cherif Mahamat said the measure aims to prevent the conflict from spreading and warned that Chad reserves the right to respond to any violation of its territory.
While trade and regular crossings have been suspended, humanitarian exemptions will allow Sudanese civilians to continue seeking refuge in Chad.
The decision comes amid growing international concern over alleged atrocities in Darfur. The UN human rights office has accused the RSF of committing war crimes and possible crimes against humanity during the capture of Al Fasher, where around 6,000 people were reportedly killed within three days.
Source: Newstimehub
