Rising Tensions Between Sudan and Its Neighbors: Army Threats Spark Regional Concerns

Tensions between Sudan and its neighbors, Chad and South Sudan, have escalated following statements by Yasser Al-Atta, a member of Sudan’s Sovereign Council and assistant to the army’s commander-in-chief. Al-Atta threatened to target locations inside these two countries, accusing them of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which are engaged in ongoing clashes with the Sudanese army. 

Al-Atta specifically mentioned the possibility of striking the airports of “N’Djamena” and “Am-Djarass” in Chad, as well as “centers of influence” in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. His remarks have been met with strong reactions from both countries.

Official Responses from Chad and South Sudan

Chad’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denounced Al-Atta’s statements as a “declaration of war,” stressing that the government takes these threats seriously. In response, South Sudan’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Sudanese ambassador in Juba and delivered an official protest, affirming that the country will take all necessary measures to protect its citizens and defend its sovereignty.

Analysis: Motivations and Risks of Escalation

Analysts suggest that these threats reflect the Sudanese army’s attempt to shift attention away from its internal conflict with the RSF by creating an “external enemy” to unify domestic ranks.

Atem Simon, a political analyst from South Sudan, noted that Al-Atta appears to be replicating the strategy of Sudan’s former leader Omar al-Bashir, who often antagonized neighboring countries to strengthen his grip on power. Simon warned that such rhetoric could further strain relations between Sudan and its neighbors, potentially harming economic cooperation and oil trade.

Sudanese political analyst Mohamed Al-Mukhtar described Al-Atta’s threats as “irresponsible,” arguing that they endanger regional security and reflect internal confusion within Sudan’s leadership.

Fears of Regional Escalation

These developments come amid increasing instability in the region. Observers warn that this escalation could lead to broader regional confrontations, especially given the ongoing accusations of cross-border support for warring factions in Sudan.

Given the high stakes, there is an urgent need for diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions and prevent the region from descending into further conflict, which could have devastating consequences for all parties involved.