Chad has implemented an indefinite closure of its eastern frontier with Sudan, citing repeated military incursions by Sudanese armed factions as the primary justification. The decisive action, announced on Monday, follows intense combat in the border settlement of al-Tina involving Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and local militias aligned with the Sudanese national army.
Government officials characterized the border shutdown as an essential security precaution amid mounting concerns that Sudan’s internal conflict is encroaching upon Chadian territory. Communications Minister Mahamat Gassim Cherif issued an official statement emphasizing the measure’s purpose to prevent regional spillover of violence and ensure protection for both citizens and refugee populations.
While the closure remains in effect indefinitely, authorities indicated they would consider humanitarian exemptions on a case-by-case basis with formal authorization. The government simultaneously issued a stern warning that Chad maintains the right to respond decisively to any aggression or border violations.
The border region has witnessed deteriorating security conditions following weekend clashes that resulted in significant casualties. Preliminary reports indicate five Chadian soldiers and three civilians lost their lives, with at least twelve others sustaining injuries during cross-border hostilities.
This development compounds an already severe humanitarian situation, with approximately one million Sudanese refugees having crossed into Chad since the civil war’s inception in April 2023. The nation serves as both a sanctuary for displaced persons and a critical conduit for humanitarian assistance entering Sudan.
The conflict originated from a power struggle between army commander Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), initially centering on integration of paramilitary forces into the regular army before escalating into full-scale warfare. Chad has repeatedly denied allegations from Sudanese authorities claiming it provides support to RSF operations.