Tensions rise on Chad–Sudan border after deadly drone strike

Tensions have escalated in recent days along the Chad–Sudan border following a deadly attack on the border town of Al-Tina. Seventeen Chadian civilians were killed in a drone strike launched from Sudanese territory, which is believed to have been carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The Al-Tina incident has marked a turning point, unlike previous routine border violations since the outbreak of war in Sudan. It has triggered official anger in N’Djamena, with authorities warning for the first time that they may pursue those responsible inside Sudan.

Chad’s warning of possible intervention and retaliation inside Sudan, along with the deployment of military reinforcements to the border, is seen by some observers as a shift on the ground. It reflects what they describe as a determination by the Chadian leadership to draw a red line and protect its territory from the spillover of Sudan’s ongoing conflict.

Local reports said the Chadian army has sent additional forces to the Al-Tina border area, amid expectations it could move into Sudanese territory in the coming days.

According to the same sources, Chadian troops have also dug trenches and built earth barriers along the boundary separating the Chadian and Sudanese sides of Al-Tina.

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