South Sudan and Chad have condemned threats made by a top Sudanese general, warning of the risk of regional escalation.
In a speech on Sunday evening, Sudanese Assistant Deputy Commander in Chief General Yasir al-Atta, said that Chad's airports in N'Djamena and Amdjarass were "legitimate military targets" and accused South Sudan of harboring "traitors".
Juba in a statement on Monday denounced the remarks as a "blatant violation of international law", reaffirming its commitment to peace but warning it would take all necessary steps to defend its sovereignty.
Chad, in a similar statement on Sunday, said that Atta's statement "could be interpreted as a declaration of war", vowing a "firm and proportionate" response to any attack.
The comments come amid Sudan's accusations that Chad and South Sudan were supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
In November 2023, Atta said Chad was using its Amdjarass to deliver supplies to the RSF. He also accused Uganda, Central Africa and Kenya of helping the group.
The war between Sudan's army and the RSF, which erupted in April 2023, has displaced millions and strained relations with neighboring countries.
Despite Chad's and South Sudan's efforts at mediation, Sudanese military leaders have increasingly accused them of aiding the RSF.
In November, Sudan filed an official complaint against Chad at the African Union's African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights over its support to the RSF by providing it with military gear and fighters.
