A drone strike launched from Sudan killed 17 people in Chad’s Tine region on March 16, escalating a conflict that is increasingly spilling across international borders, according to reports from Al Jazeera and the United Nations.
The attack, which targeted mourners at a funeral and children at play, prompted Chad to order its army to “retaliate, starting tonight,” according to a statement from Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby shared on social media. A spokesperson for the Chadian government stated the assault was “of extreme gravity” and followed previous warnings to warring parties in Sudan and the closure of the border.
The escalating violence comes amid a significant escalation in the Sudanese Civil War between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has recorded over 200 civilian deaths resulting from drone strikes in the Kordofan region and White Nile State since March 4.
In West Kordofan, SAF drone strikes have killed at least 152 civilians, hitting densely populated areas including hospitals and markets. Strikes have also targeted the White Nile State capital, Kosti, and electrical facilities, causing widespread power outages, as well as a student dormitory. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed deep concern over the continued use of explosive weapons in populated areas despite repeated warnings and appeals.
South Darfur has also been heavily affected, with strikes on March 12 and 13 causing extensive damage. A strike on a market in Akidong triggered an explosion impacting the Adre border crossing, a critical aid delivery route.
The conflict has triggered a massive displacement crisis within Sudan, with approximately 9 million people currently internally displaced, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). While roughly 3.8 million civilians have begun returning home, particularly to Khartoum and eastern regions, they face challenges including loss of livelihoods, infrastructure damage, and lack of access to basic services. Approximately 55 percent of internally displaced civilians are children under 18.
Humanitarian agencies report widespread health crises, with outbreaks of cholera, measles, dengue, and Hepatitis E overwhelming already strained national health systems. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reports 23 injuries, including seven children, from explosive remnants. The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that 21.2 million people are currently food insecure, with women and children disproportionately affected. UNICEF reported “catastrophic” malnutrition rates in Um Baru and Kornoi in North Darfur.
Despite efforts by the UN and its partners to restore access to basic services – including the installation of water tanks and provision of food assistance and vaccinations to over 787,000 children – the 2026 Humanitarian Response Plan for Sudan remains severely underfunded, reaching only 16 percent of its $2.9 billion goal. An additional $1.6 billion is required to support refugees and host communities in neighboring countries.
UN Deputy Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Farhan Haq stated the attack in Chad reflects a growing pattern of violence affecting border communities, raising concerns about broader regional instability. The UN has reiterated its call for all parties to comply with international humanitarian law, protecting civilians and ensuring safe humanitarian access.
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