Khartoum: Sudan has accused Ethiopia of being involved in its ongoing civil war for the first time, raising fears of growing tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
According to a statement from Sudan’s Foreign Ministry, drone attacks were launched from Ethiopian territory into areas of Sudan in recent weeks. The statement said the incidents took place near the Blue Nile border region and described them as a violation of Sudan’s sovereignty. Sudan warned that it reserves the right to respond in order to protect its territory.
The government of Sudan said the alleged drone activity marks a serious escalation in the conflict that has already caused widespread destruction and displacement since it began in April 2023. The war is mainly between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces.
This is the first time Sudan has directly accused Ethiopia of military involvement in the conflict. Ethiopian authorities have not yet publicly responded to the accusations.
In recent months, there have been reports suggesting that regional actors may be indirectly supporting different sides in Sudan’s war. Earlier investigations by Reuters indicated that fighters linked to the Rapid Support Forces were allegedly trained in camps near the Ethiopian border. However, these claims have not been independently confirmed by multiple sources.
The Blue Nile region has seen increased fighting in recent weeks, with reports of drone strikes and cross border tensions. The area is strategically important and has long been sensitive due to its proximity to Ethiopia.
Analysts warn that if relations between Sudan and Ethiopia continue to worsen, the conflict could spill over into a broader regional crisis in the Horn of Africa. Both countries are already facing internal challenges, economic pressures and security concerns.
Sudan’s civil war has created one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and severe shortages of food and medical supplies. Aid agencies have repeatedly called for a ceasefire and for regional powers to avoid actions that could intensify the violence.
For now, diplomatic channels remain open, but the latest accusations signal a dangerous moment in an already fragile region.