Sudan condemned South Sudan’s request for an investigation into military atrocities, warning of potential repercussions. Accusations from South Sudan regarding terrorism by the Sudanese army intensified tensions, with Sudan dismissing the claims as baseless. Relations have further deteriorated amid reports of violence against Sudanese citizens in South Sudan, following the recent military confrontations.
On January 23, 2025, Sudan criticized South Sudan’s call for a U.N. and African Union investigation into alleged war crimes. The Sudanese government warned that it would take “appropriate measures” in reaction to what it termed as Juba’s continued violations, escalating already strained relations between the two nations. The dispute intensified after South Sudan’s Foreign Minister accused Sudanese forces of committing acts of terrorism and killing South Sudanese civilians.
Sudan’s Foreign Ministry swiftly rejected the accusations, labeling them “unjustified” while noting that it had already established a committee to investigate the alleged incidents in Al Jazeera state, which coincided with the Sudanese army’s seizure of Madani on January 11. A statement emphasized Sudan’s enduring patience amidst escalating tensions, particularly due to claimed South Sudanese participation with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Khartoum asserted that it had provided evidence of South Sudanese mercenaries collaborating with the RSF, and accused South Sudan of facilitating their recruitment and providing medical care for the RSF’s wounded. Moreover, Sudan implored that retaliatory violence against its citizens, including killings and assaults instigated by South Sudanese officials, has occurred, which also included attacks on the Sudanese diplomatic mission in Juba.
Reports indicate that sixteen Sudanese citizens lost their lives across four provinces in South Sudan amidst the violence following the accusations against the Sudanese military. In light of these developments, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry indicated it would take necessary steps in both international and regional forums to safeguard its citizens’ rights, reaffirming its commitment to respond decisively to Juba’s actions.
The ongoing accusations signify a notable deterioration in relations between Sudan and South Sudan, which have remained precarious since South Sudan’s independence in 2011. The conflict in Sudan, ignited in April 2023, has further exacerbated these tensions, indicating a complex and volatile regional dynamic.
The relationship between Sudan and South Sudan has been increasingly tense since South Sudan’s independence in 2011, following decades of civil conflict. Accusations of human rights violations and military aggression have marred diplomatic interactions between the two nations, which remain sensitive and complicated. The backdrop of civil strife in Sudan since April 2023 has added to existing grievances, making the political landscape exceedingly delicate.
The recent diplomatic spat between Sudan and South Sudan encapsulates the precarious nature of their relationship, exacerbated by accusations of violence and terrorism. Sudan’s stern rejection of calls for an investigation reflects its stance on the allegations, while also hinting at possible retaliatory measures. These developments not only highlight the fragility of inter-state relations but also forecast further escalation if diplomatic resolutions are not pursued.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
