Sudanese General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the commander of the Sudanese army, confirmed that his forces are ready to defend the country after Khartoum Airport was targeted by five drone attacks believed to have originated from Ethiopia last Monday. In a statement to Middle East Eye, Burhan indicated that if the source of the drones is confirmed, Sudan will take necessary steps to protect its territory in coordination with the international community.
A Sudanese intelligence source reported that the Sudanese armed forces and their allies are preparing to deploy significant troops in the Blue Nile State, which borders Ethiopia, and in the disputed Fashaga region between the two countries. The source noted that the Sudanese government anticipates an increase in such attacks, given the deteriorating relations between Sudan and Ethiopia and the potential for direct confrontation between the two nations.
Details of the Incident
Earlier reports indicated that the drones used by the Rapid Support Forces, which have been clashing with the Sudanese army since April 2023, were launched from a base in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. Sudanese government and military sources confirmed that these attacks represent a violation of Sudan's sovereignty and international laws. During a joint press conference in Khartoum, the spokesperson for the Sudanese armed forces, Brigadier General Asem Awad Abdel Wahab, alongside Sudan's Foreign Minister Mohie Eddin Salim, accused Ethiopia and the UAE of being behind these attacks.
Brigadier General Awad also mentioned that Sudanese air defenses have intercepted several drones since March, with previous attacks targeting locations in White Nile, Blue Nile, and Kordofan states.
Background & Context
Historically, relations between Sudan and Ethiopia have been marked by increasing tensions, particularly over border and water issues. The dispute over the Fashaga region, which is considered rich in agricultural resources, has been one of the main causes of these tensions. Additionally, Ethiopia's support for the Rapid Support Forces, seen as a parallel force to the Sudanese army, complicates the situation further. Reports suggest that an Ethiopian military base in the Benshangul-Gumuz region is being used to support these forces.
In a related context, the UAE continues to deny any involvement in the Sudanese conflict, despite increasing accusations from the Sudanese government. These dynamics reflect broader regional conflicts involving international interventions in the internal affairs of states.
Impact & Consequences
These drone attacks represent a serious escalation in the ongoing conflict in Sudan, raising concerns about a larger military confrontation between Sudan and Ethiopia. The rising tensions could destabilize the region, affecting regional security and increasing civilian suffering. Furthermore, these events may impact efforts to return to normalcy in Khartoum, where many residents are seeking to return home after prolonged periods of conflict.
It is noteworthy that the drone attacks have led to the suspension of flights to and from Khartoum Airport for security reasons, affecting passenger movement and trade in the region. Reports indicate that these attacks aimed to disrupt scheduled international flights.
Regional Significance
The repercussions of these events extend beyond Sudan's borders, reflecting broader regional conflicts in the Horn of Africa. The tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia could influence relations among other Arab countries, especially given the intertwined Emirati and Ethiopian interests in regional disputes. Additionally, these events may lead to a reevaluation of regional and international alliances in the area.
In conclusion, the situation in Sudan remains tense, with expectations of increased military escalation. The international community must closely monitor the situation and work to support peace and stability efforts in the region.