Chad shuts border with Sudan after RSF clashes near al-Tina raise fears of conflict spillover
The government of Chad has announced the immediate closure of its eastern border with Sudan, citing growing security threats linked to the ongoing Sudan conflict.
Officials said the move is designed to prevent the war in Sudan from spilling into Chadian territory after fresh clashes erupted near the border town of al-Tina.
Border Closure “Until Further Notice”
Government spokespersons confirmed the border would remain closed “until further notice”, though humanitarian exemptions may be granted with prior approval.
Communications Minister Mahamat Gassim Cherif said the decision aims to protect civilians and refugee communities, warning that Chad “reserves the right to retaliate against any aggression or violation.”
Authorities urged residents in border areas to remain calm, stay alert, and comply with new security restrictions.
Deadly Fighting Near al-Tina
The announcement follows intense fighting in al-Tina, where Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) clashed with local fighters aligned with the Sudanese army.
According to officials cited by Reuters, the violence left five Chadian soldiers and three civilians dead, with at least 12 others wounded. Reports indicated that Sudanese armed groups had crossed into Chadian territory, heightening tensions.
Chadian troops were reportedly caught up in the crossfire during the clashes.
Nearly One Million Refugees
Since the outbreak of Sudan’s civil war in April 2023, nearly one million Sudanese refugees have crossed into Chad, making it one of the most affected neighboring countries.
Chad has also served as a critical humanitarian corridor, allowing aid workers and supplies to reach war-affected regions inside Sudan.
Roots of the Sudan Conflict
The Sudan conflict began when tensions between the national army, led by Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, commanded by Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), escalated into full-scale war.
A dispute over integrating the RSF into the regular army quickly spiraled into a devastating power struggle that continues to destabilize the region.
Sudan’s army has accused Chad of supporting the RSF and allowing military supplies to pass through its territory — allegations that the Chadian government has repeatedly denied.
As fighting intensifies along the border, the Chad border closure signals rising regional concern that Sudan’s war could further destabilize neighboring states.