Sudan has fiercely criticized South Sudan’s call for a U.N. and AU investigation into alleged atrocities. This stems from accusations made by South Sudan about Sudanese forces committing terrorism. Sudan claims these allegations are unfounded and emphasizes its ongoing committee to probe the claims while warning of possible actions against South Sudan.
Sudan has issued a stern condemnation of South Sudan’s request for an investigation by the U.N. and African Union into alleged war crimes. This response comes amidst an escalating diplomatic dispute, with Sudan warning it may undertake “appropriate measures” due to what it perceives as South Sudan’s persistent provocations. The tensions flared following the accusation by South Sudan’s Foreign Minister that the Sudanese army has committed acts of terrorism and targeted South Sudanese citizens.
The Sudanese Foreign Ministry labeled these allegations as “baseless” and highlighted its own initiative to form a committee aimed at investigating clashes that reportedly occurred in Al Jazeera state after the Sudanese army took control of the city of Madani on January 11. Sudan emphasized its tolerance towards South Sudan’s actions, even as they allege that mercenaries from South Sudan have been assisting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in their operations against Sudanese troops.
Additionally, Sudan has accused South Sudan of permitting the recruitment and transportation of these mercenaries, including providing medical care for their wounded in South Sudanese healthcare facilities. Sudan claims to have shared evidence of this involvement with South Sudanese leadership, which has allegedly failed to act on these matters.
The Sudanese government also stated that retaliatory actions against Sudanese citizens in South Sudan, including violence and looting, have been facilitated by South Sudanese authorities. Reports indicate that sixteen Sudanese nationals lost their lives due to violence attributed to the tensions stemming from these allegations.
In light of these developments, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry has indicated that it will pursue “appropriate measures” within both international and regional contexts. It has made it clear that protecting the rights of its citizens remains a priority, and previous patience regarding Juba’s activities may no longer be viable.
The ongoing exchanges of accusations represent a significant decline in relations between Sudan and South Sudan, particularly given the historical context of conflict, following South Sudan’s independence in 2011 and the ongoing strife that began in Sudan in April 2023. These factors contribute to an already precarious relationship between the two neighbors.
The relationship between Sudan and South Sudan has been fraught with tension since South Sudan’s independence in 2011 after a prolonged civil war. The recent conflict beginning in Sudan in April 2023 has exacerbated existing issues. The call for an investigation into war crimes has triggered a diplomatic row, highlighting the fragility of their interactions. Allegations of terrorism and mercenary involvement by both parties further complicate this dynamic, necessitating international and regional attention.
In conclusion, Sudan’s strong rebuke of South Sudan’s call for an investigation into war crimes marks a deepening of diplomatic tensions. The accusations exchanged suggest a deterioration in their relationship, which was already strained due to historical conflicts and recent events in Sudan. The situation underscores the necessity for a reassessment of diplomatic measures to mitigate hostilities and protect citizens on both sides.
Original Source: sudantribune.com
