Cross-border violence from Sudan civil war spreads into Chad, raising security concerns
At least 15 people were killed in a drone attack on Wednesday, March 18, in the border town of Tine, Chad, highlighting the growing impact of the Sudan civil war beyond its borders.
According to local officials, the strike targeted a funeral gathering, turning a moment of mourning into tragedy. A senior official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that between 15 and 16 victims lost their lives in the attack, which was reportedly launched from Sudanese territory.
A military source attributed the drone strike to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group engaged in a prolonged conflict with the Sudanese army since April 2023. However, the RSF denied responsibility, instead blaming their rivals for the deadly incident.
The attack underscores how the Sudan conflict is increasingly spilling into neighboring countries. Despite Chad’s decision to close its border with Sudan in late February due to repeated incursions, violence continues to cross the porous and difficult-to-control frontier.
This latest strike follows another incident in late February, when a rocket fired from Sudan caused significant damage in Tine. Since December, at least 23 people, including soldiers and civilians, have been killed in the area, according to reports.
The broader conflict remains devastating. The war in Sudan has already killed tens of thousands and displaced more than 12 million people, with nearly one million refugees fleeing into Chad, according to United Nations estimates.
Meanwhile, in Sudan’s western Darfur region, the RSF has consolidated control over vast areas, including key border towns near Chad. The region’s instability continues to fuel cross-border violence, worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis.
As tensions rise, the international community faces mounting pressure to address the growing regional impact of the Sudan civil war, which shows no signs of slowing.
Source: lemonde