Sudan accuses Ethiopia and UAE of involvement in recent drone attacks

Sudan Recalls Ambassador to Ethiopia Amid Drone Attacks

The Sudanese government has announced the recall of its ambassador from Ethiopia following recent drone attacks on Khartoum airport and other locations in the country. The attacks, which began on March 1, have been attributed to drones originating from Bahir Dar airport in Ethiopia.

According to Brigadier General Asim Awad Abdelwahab, a military spokesperson, Sudan has obtained evidence of four drone attacks since the start of the incidents. He also claimed that the United Arab Emirates provided the drones used in the attacks.

Foreign Minister Mohieddin Salem stated that while Khartoum will not initiate attacks against other countries, “whoever attacks us will be met with a response.” The Sudanese government has expressed readiness to engage in an open confrontation with Ethiopia if necessary.

The drone attacks have been frequent since April 15, 2023, when Sudan descended into civil war. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of several people and has disrupted the country’s capital, Khartoum.

Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected Sudan’s accusations, blaming its army for supporting mercenaries from the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). The ministry stated that Sudan is serving as a hub for anti-Ethiopian forces and that the Sudanese armed forces have provided arms and financial support to these mercenaries.

The conflict between Sudan and Ethiopia has been ongoing for years, with tensions rising over disputed farmland along the frontier in the al-Fashaga region. The construction of Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam on the Blue Nile has also contributed to the tensions.

The International Crisis Group’s Horn of Africa director, Alan Boswell, noted that the reciprocal accusations between Sudan and Ethiopia are creating a dangerous dynamic between the two countries, which could exacerbate their internal challenges.

Source: Al Jazeera