The ongoing conflict in Sudan has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, with nearly one million people fleeing to neighboring Chad. The fall of El-Fasher in North Darfur has accelerated displacement, with nearly 100,000 civilians escaping the city in just two weeks—including 6,000 who crossed into Chad. This influx has placed immense pressure on a country already grappling with years of regional instability.

a critical border under threat

The 1,300-kilometer border between Chad and Sudan stretches through remote desert regions that are notoriously difficult to monitor. Historically exploited by militias and rebel groups, these areas now face growing risks from the advancing Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which now control most of Darfur.

Military tensions have intensified since December 2024, including a drone strike in Chad that killed two soldiers—an incident linked to the RSF. In January 2025, an RSF incursion near Tiné left seven dead, further escalating hostilities.

In response to these threats, N’Djamena has fully closed its border, citing concerns over a potential spillover of the Sudanese conflict into its territory.

claimed neutrality, persistent allegations

Chad insists it remains neutral in the Sudanese war. However, multiple investigations—including satellite analyses—suggest that weapons originating from the United Arab Emirates may have transited through its territory to supply the RSF. Authorities strongly deny these claims, emphasizing that Chad itself has been targeted by airstrikes and incursions.

These allegations have fueled internal divisions, with high-ranking officers—particularly from the Zaghawa ethnic group, which dominates the security apparatus and has long opposed the RSF—being removed from their posts in April 2025.

strategic realignment with France

After a period of strained diplomatic relations, Chad is now seeking to rebuild ties with France. The Sudanese issue has become a key topic in discussions between Mahamat Idriss Déby and Emmanuel Macron, as Paris had previously provided critical intelligence support to secure the border. With this support now reduced, a diplomatic thaw is seen as vital for Chad’s stability.