Seventeen killed in drone attack on Chad from Sudans territory

Chad Reports Drone Attack on Border Town, Vows Retaliation

A drone attack launched from Sudan has resulted in the deaths of 17 people in Chad, according to the Chadian government. The attack occurred in the border town of Tine, despite previous warnings and the closure of the border.

According to a local resident, the attack took place on Wednesday while mourners were gathered at a house for a funeral. Two explosions were reported, resulting in casualties including civilians and children playing nearby. The identity of those responsible for the attack is currently unknown.

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby has called an emergency meeting with the defence and security council to discuss retaliation against any future attacks from Sudan. The government has strengthened its security presence at the border and may consider carrying out operations on Sudanese territory.

The conflict in Sudan between the military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) began in April 2023. The war has resulted in significant loss of life, with tens of thousands killed and over 12 million displaced. Many of those displaced have fled to Chad, where they are seeking refuge.

The border between Chad and Sudan is long and porous, making it difficult to control. The RSF has captured almost the entirety of Darfur, a region in western Sudan bordering Chad. The UN has accused the paramilitary group of committing massacres with characteristics of genocide.

Drones have become a key weapon used by both sides in the conflict. Both the Sudanese army and the RSF have received military support from various countries, including Iran, Turkey, and Russia. The RSF is believed to have received support through supply routes reportedly running through Chad and other transit states.

Source: Al Jazeera