Tensions have risen along the border between Chad and Sudan, as the Chadian government moved to shut down cross-border movement following growing security concerns tied to the ongoing civil conflict in Sudan. Authorities said the decision was necessary to prevent further military and militant activity from spilling into Chadian territory and putting civilians at risk.
According to a statement from Communications Minister Mahamat Gassim Cherif, the closure was triggered by repeated security breaches and armed confrontations involving fighters linked to Sudan’s internal war. He explained that the government wanted to act quickly to protect its borders and stop the violence from spreading further into Chad. The move comes after several reported clashes between Chadian soldiers and armed groups operating close to the shared frontier.
The conflict in Sudan has dragged on for nearly three years between the country’s government forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The fighting has caused massive displacement across the region, forcing millions of people to abandon their homes in search of safety. Humanitarian agencies have described the crisis as one of the most severe in recent global history, with communities struggling to survive amid food shortages and insecurity.
In recent months, paramilitary forces have stepped up operations near the Chadian border, raising alarms among local security agencies. Reports also indicate that at least nine Chadian soldiers have lost their lives in separate incidents since December. The situation became more tense after fighters attempted to expand control in Sudan’s western Darfur region, leaving only small pockets outside their influence.
The latest escalation happened over the weekend when armed groups reportedly advanced toward the border town of Al-Tina. Military-aligned forces later said they successfully repelled the attack, but the fighting forced many residents to flee toward Tine on the Chadian side of the border. The area has already become a refuge for thousands of Sudanese civilians escaping the ongoing war.
Authorities in Chad also announced that movement of goods and people across the border has been temporarily suspended. However, officials noted that exceptions may still be made for humanitarian aid deliveries and emergency relief operations. The government also warned that it reserves the right to respond to any future attacks or territorial violations as it works to maintain stability along its borders.
