Mar 20 • 07:38 UTC 🌍 Africa AllAfrica

Chad: Chad Shuts Sudan Border After Drone Strike Kills Civilians in El Tina

Chad has closed its border with Sudan following a drone strike that killed at least 16 civilians in the town of Mabrouka.

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby has taken decisive action by ordering the immediate closure of the 1,300-kilometre border with Sudan after a drone strike in Mabrouka killed at least 16 civilians. This strike occurred during a Ramadan iftar, marking a significant escalation in tensions along the border. Local sources indicate that the drone was launched from Sudan, prompting Déby to label the incident as an "outrageous and excessive aggression" against Chad's sovereignty.

In response to this event, Déby convened an emergency meeting of Chad's Defence and Security Council in the capital, N'Djamena, where crucial decisions about national security were made. The President has directed the military to remain on high alert and respond to any potential aggressions from Sudanese forces, including both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. This situation reflects the complex security environment in the region, particularly as the conflict in Sudan continues to spill over national boundaries and affect neighboring countries.

The implications of this border closure are significant, as it may lead to humanitarian strains especially given the ongoing conflict and crisis in Sudan. However, the Chad government aims to safeguard its territories and citizens from the ongoing violence. The situation remains fluid, with potential for further escalations as tensions mount between the two nations.

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