Chad Shuts Border Amid Concerns of Involvement in Sudan Conflict

Chad has recently closed its extensive border with Sudan, citing growing security threats as violence between Sudan's military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) intensifies near its territory. The decision follows a series of deadly incidents along the border, including clashes that resulted in casualties among Chadian soldiers and civilians close to the town of Tine. The Chadian government stated that the move aims to limit the potential for the conflict to spread further into Chadian territory.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which reignited in April 2023, has pitted the Sudanese army against the RSF, leading to significant regional instability. Chad, sharing a 1,300-kilometer border with Sudan, has faced repeated cross-border incursions and violence spilling onto its soil since late last year. Reports indicate that RSF fighters have at times pursued opponents into Chad and attacked military positions, resulting in fatalities and raising alarm over the possibility of the conflict escalating beyond Sudan's borders.

The humanitarian consequences have been severe. Chad has become a primary refuge for those fleeing the violence in Sudan, with over one million Sudanese refugees seeking safety across the border since the conflict escalated. However, the closure of the border now places many fleeing individuals at risk, potentially trapping them in dangerous environments with limited access to food, water, and medical assistance.

Complicating the situation are longstanding ethnic and political ties between communities on both sides of the border, a legacy of colonial-era divisions. The Zaghawa ethnic group, for example, holds significant influence in both Chad and Sudan, but their allegiances are divided. In Chad, Zaghawa leaders are prominent in government and the military, whereas in Sudan, many Zaghawa have aligned with the national army against the RSF. These internal dynamics have led to tensions and occasional clashes among Zaghawa factions along the border region.

International actors have further complicated the conflict. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are reported to be backing opposing sides, with Saudi Arabia supporting the Sudanese army and the UAE alleged to be a major supporter of the RSF. Chad has come under scrutiny amid allegations that it has facilitated the transfer of weapons from the UAE to RSF fighters in Sudan, though Chadian authorities deny these accusations. Observers point to increased cooperation agreements between Chad and the UAE, including financial loans and logistical support, as evidence of a close relationship. Cargo flights from the UAE to Chadian airports near the Sudanese border have reportedly increased since the conflict began, fueling suspicions of arms transfers.

Recent developments suggest a shift in Chad's approach. Reports indicate that arms deliveries to the RSF through Chad have diminished this year. Analysts attribute this change to internal pressures, particularly from influential Zaghawa military leaders who are said to be supporting efforts against the RSF within Sudan. Chad's leadership may be attempting to balance internal interests with the need to maintain international partnerships, particularly with the UAE, which has provided substantial financial assistance to the country. At the same time, Chad is reportedly strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia, potentially in response to shifting alliances in the region.

Humanitarian organizations have raised concerns over the impact of the border closure on Sudanese civilians attempting to escape conflict. With the border sealed, the options for safe passage and access to essential services for refugees are significantly reduced, exacerbating an already dire situation.

The situation remains volatile, and Chad's actions underscore the broader risk of the Sudanese conflict spreading across borders, drawing neighboring countries deeper into regional instability. As the crisis continues, the balance between national security, humanitarian needs, and international relations remains delicate for Chad and other countries in the region.