By Philip Buda Ladu
South Sudan has condemned a recent public statement made by Assistant Deputy Commander in Chief of Sudanese Armed Forces, General Yasir Al-Atta, citing it as “threats of military aggression.”
In a press statement on Monday, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Apuk Ayuel Mayen, expressed the government’s “deep concern” over Al-Atta’s March 23, 2025, remarks.
“The remarks made on 23 March 2025, in which General Al-Atta declared the readiness of the Sudanese Government and its armed forces to deal with what he described as “traitors” inside the Republic of South Sudan, are not only reckless and provocative but also a blatant violation of the principles of good neighborliness, peaceful coexistence, and international law,” Amb. Ayuel said.
Amb. Ayuel reaffirmed South Sudanese government’s commitment to regional peace and stability, emphasizing advocacy for dialogue and diplomatic solutions.
The foreign affairs spokesperson also reiterated their call for an immediate end to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has resulted in a significant influx of Sudanese refugees into South Sudan.
“We urge the leadership of the Republic of the Sudan to reaffirm its commitment to peaceful relations and to ensure that public statements by its officials, and actions reflect respect for international norms and the sovereignty of all nations,” Ayuel continued.
Juba government also called upon regional and international partners, including the African Union and the United Nations, to take note of the “hostile remarks” and engage with Sudan to prevent any further escalation. It further emphasized its readiness to “take all necessary measures to safeguard its territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens.”
This statement comes amid escalating tensions between Sudan and its neighbors.
General Al-Atta’s remarks also included threats against Chad, specifically targeting airports in N’Djamena and Amdjarass, which Chad responded to by stating that the remarks “could be interpreted as a declaration of war,” vowing a “firm and proportionate” response to any attack.
The current escalation is linked to Sudan’s accusations that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is supplying drones to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the Sudanese government’s rivals in the nearly two-year-old war.
Sudan alleges that some of these operations are being launched from Chad. The UAE has denied these allegations, though UN experts and U.S. legislators have found them credible.
Sudan has taken the issue to the UN Security Council and the International Court of Justice, accusing the UAE of complicity in genocide against the Masalit ethnic group in Darfur.
The war between the Sudanese army and the RSF, which began in April 2023, has displaced millions and strained relations with neighboring countries, despite mediation efforts by Chad and South Sudan