Story perspectives

Chad Closes Border with Sudan Amid Escalating Conflict

2/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Chad's eastern border with Sudan is closed indefinitely to prevent the conflict from spreading and to protect citizens and refugees, per Chad's Communications Minister Mahamat Gassim Cherif.
Heavy fighting in the border town of al-Tina prompted the decision.
Nearly one million Sudanese refugees have fled to Chad since the civil war began in 2023.
Chad may grant humanitarian exceptions to the border closure.
Analysts say the closure could hinder humanitarian aid to Sudan.

History

Historical Context

The Sudanese civil war, which reignited in April 2023, has led to a humanitarian crisis, displacing nearly one million refugees into Chad. Historically, Chad has hosted a significant number of Sudanese refugees, with over 262,900 recorded by 2011, primarily fleeing the Darfur crisis that began in 2003. Chad's recent border closure reflects ongoing regional tensions and complicates humanitarian efforts.

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Story summary

Chad's eastern border with Sudan is closed indefinitely to prevent the conflict from spreading and to protect citizens and refugees, per Chad's Communications Minister Mahamat Gassim Cherif.
Heavy fighting in the border town of al-Tina prompted the decision.
Nearly one million Sudanese refugees have fled to Chad since the civil war began in 2023.
Chad may grant humanitarian exceptions to the border closure.
Analysts say the closure could hinder humanitarian aid to Sudan.

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