Chad's president has ordered the military to retaliate against future attacks from Sudan following a drone attack that killed at least 17 people and injured several others attending a funeral.
Wearing military uniform, President Idris Mahamat Déby convened an emergency security meeting on Wednesday evening, where he ordered the military to be on high alert. He also ordered a total closure of the border with Sudan.
He described the attack targeting the border town of Tiné as outrageous and a blatant aggression against Chad's territorial integrity.
He stated that the attack occurred despite warnings to both sides battling in Sudan and a previous border closure.
Last month, Chad had closed its border with Sudan until further notice to prevent repeated incursions by Sudanese armed groups, while still allowing humanitarian exemptions with prior approval.
Residents of Tiné reported that the victims of the attack were mourners gathered for a funeral ceremony.
The attack has drawn condemnation from various officials, including the National Assembly, and the spokesman for Chad's government expressed deep dismay and condolences to the bereaved families.
Chad has now strengthened the posture of its defence and security forces and is prepared to pursue action inside Sudanese territory under international law, amid escalating tensions and a civil war in Sudan that erupted in April 2023.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, affecting more than 13 million people, with nearly one million fleeing to Chad. The porous and difficult-to-control 1,400km border remains a source of concern as Chad increases its military response capabilities.
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces are suspected of carrying out the drone strike, while both the RSF and the Sudanese army have denied involvement and exchanged accusations regarding support and incursion.
