KHARTOUM – On the one hand, tensions are rising between South Sudan and Chad and the Sudanese government of General Abdel Fatta al-Burhan. The conflict exploded following a statement by General Yasir Al Ata, the deputy commander of the Sudanese army, in an interview with Al Jazeera on March 23, 2025. Khartoum suspects that the United Arab Emirates are using these airports to supply rapid support forces (RSF), a Sudanese paramilitary group opposed to the national military (see Fides 23/10/2024).
In his statement, Al Atta also issued a threat to South Sudan, spurring immediate responses from neighboring countries.
Chad and South Sudan responded strongly to what the Sudan General said. “A statement made on March 23, 2025 declared that General Al-Ata had declared the preparations for the Sudan government and its troops what he described as a “traitor” within the Republic of South Sudan. “The government of the Republic of South Sudan is firmly committed to regional peace and stability and is consistently supporting dialogue and diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts,” the statement continued.
The South Sudan government has also repeated its calls for an immediate end to Sudan’s catastrophic conflict. “We urge the leaders of the Republic of Sudan to reaffirm their commitment to peaceful relations and to ensure that public statements by their officials reflect international norms and respect for the sovereignty of all nations,” the statement added. As part of this, the Chadian government responded with even stronger condemnation. In a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, N’djamena strongly rejected the Sudanese general’s statement, warning that “if practiced, it can be interpreted as a declaration of war.” “Such statements can lead to dangerous escalations throughout the region,” the statement said.
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The Chad government replied, “Chad reserves the right to firmly respond to attempts to attack our country, regardless of its origin. If even one square meter of our territory is threatened, Chad responds according to the principles of international law.” Despite the gravity of the situation, Chad reiterated Sudan’s commitment to peace, recalling that “Sudan’s conflict is an internal issue and the sole responsibility of the parties to the conflict.” It also highlighted the humanitarian role in the region. “Feeling to the tradition of hospitality and solidarity, Chad continues to welcome hundreds of thousands of Sudanese refugees, representing a significant burden on our country and showing a commitment to peace, solidarity and regional stability.”
