Chad Closes Border with Sudan Amid Rising Conflict

Chad has announced the indefinite closure of its border with Sudan in response to severe clashes involving Chadian soldiers and armed groups linked to the ongoing civil war in Sudan. The announcement was made by the Communications Minister, Mahamat Gassim Cherif, who stated that the decision follows repeated incursions and violations by forces involved in the Sudanese conflict into Chadian territory.

The aim is to halt the risk of the conflict spreading into Chad. The situation has escalated, with at least nine Chadian soldiers reported killed in separate incidents since December.

The statement also reserves the right for Chad to retaliate against any aggressors violating its territorial integrity. Cross-border movement of goods and people has been suspended, with exceptions made for humanitarian reasons.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, particularly involving the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, with over 10,000 people killed and 11 million displaced.