N’DJAMENA, Chad (SCANS) — The government of Chad announced Monday the immediate and indefinite closure of its eastern border with Sudan, citing a sharp escalation in cross-border violence and “repeated incursions” by warring Sudanese factions that have reportedly left several Chadian soldiers dead.
The decision, announced by Communications Minister and government spokesperson Mahamat Gassim Cherif, marks a significant diplomatic and security shift for Chad.
The nation has served as the primary gateway for humanitarian aid and a sanctuary for more than 1.5 million refugees since the Sudanese civil war erupted in April 2023.
“This decision aims to prevent any risk of the conflict spreading to our soil, to protect our citizens and refugees, and to guarantee the stability and territorial integrity of our country,” the government statement read.
Deadly Spillover in Tine
The closure follows a weekend of intense fighting in the strategic border town of Tine.
According to military sources and local officials, fighters from Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched an assault on the town, which was being held by the Sudanese Armed Forces and allied “Joint Forces.
“The resulting chaos spilled across the invisible frontier line. Reports from the region indicate that at least five Chadian soldiers and three civilians were killed during the clashes.
Chadian military officials stated that RSF units pursued retreating Sudanese troops into Chadian territory, prompting a direct engagement with N’Djamena’s forces.
Humanitarian and Economic Impact
While the government has suspended all movement of people and goods, the statement noted that “exceptional exemptions” for humanitarian reasons may be granted with prior authorization.
However, aid agencies expressed immediate concern.
Refugee Crisis: Chad currently hosts the largest population of Sudanese refugees in the world.
Supply Lines: The border town of Adre has been the lifeline for food and medical supplies entering Darfur, where famine-like conditions are spreading.
Trade: Local traders in eastern Chad reported an immediate halt to the transport of grain and fuel, threatening to spike prices in an already fragile economy.
A Hardening Stance
For months, the Sudanese government in Port Sudan has accused Chad of allowing its territory to be used as a supply route for the RSF—a charge Chad has vehemently denied.
Conversely, Chadian authorities have grown increasingly frustrated with the disregard for its sovereignty.
In its Monday communiqué, the Chadian government issued a stern warning, stating it “reserves the right to retaliate against any aggression or violation of the inviolability of its territory.”
As of Monday evening, additional Chadian military units were seen deploying toward the border provinces of Wadi Fira and Ouaddaï to enforce the closure.
