Chad: Reasons for the Closure of the Border with Sudan
The Chadian government has announced a strict and immediate closure of its border with Sudan due to repeated incursions following recent conflicts in the border region.
The Chadian government convened an extraordinary security meeting on February 23 to announce the strict and immediate closure of the country's border with Sudan. This decision was made in response to multiple incursions into Chadian territory, particularly due to renewed combat between Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (FSR) and allied joint forces, which erupted on February 21 in the border town of Tina. The closure reflects Chad's concerns over national security amidst escalating violence in Sudan's Darfur region.
The situation escalated when the Sudanese paramilitary forces claimed control of Tina, which is located in northern Darfur and shares a border with Chad. This advancement was publicized through a video announcement by the FSR, showcasing celebrations by fighters under a banner displaying the town's name. This claim poses significant implications for Chad, as the unrest in Sudan has historically affected stability and security within its own borders.
Given the ongoing violence in Sudan, the Chadian government's decision to close its border is a proactive measure aimed at preventing further incursions and protecting its territory from the spillover effects of the conflict. The relationship between Chad and Sudan has been tense in the past, and recent events could potentially lead to heightened military preparedness along the border, impacting both humanitarian conditions and regional security.