Khartoum, Sudan — July 16, 2026 A surge in violence in northern and central Sudan, especially in El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan, has increased the risk of spillover into neighboring countries, including Chad.
The escalation of drone strikes targeting infrastructure and public areas, along with artillery shelling and the buildup of forces around El Obeid, suggests a potential shift towards a large — scale offensive. This situation has prompted the United Nations, the Security Council, and various international actors to warn of an “imminent risk of mass atrocities” against civilian populations.
The conflict has now reached Chad’s eastern border areas, particularly in Wadi Fira province, with several clashes reported approximately 100 km from the border.
On June 29, coordinated attacks by Joint Forces allied with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) targeted Abu Gamra and Koulbous-Sudan, just across the border from Koulbous-Chad.
In response, Chadian authorities have reinforced security measures along the border to prevent the conflict from spilling over into national territory. With the current developments, counter-attacks by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) or renewed offensives by the SAF and their allies are highly probable in the coming days, leading to an increase in drone strikes and ground clashes along the Wadi Fira and Ouaddaï border areas.
The situation demands heightened vigilance across all border areas.
In the event of a rapid deterioration of the security situation, a precautionary suspension of movements and activities in Koulbous — Chad may be considered to ensure the safety of personnel and beneficiaries, while allowing for the rapid adaptation of humanitarian operations.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: UN High Commissioner for Refugees
