Ethiopia, Sudan close consulates over alleged civil war interference

Nairobi - Ethiopia and Sudan have closed each other's consulates near their shared border, deepening tensions over allegations each nation is supporting the other's adversaries. Sudan claims Ethiopia backs the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), while Ethiopia accuses Sudan of aiding rebels in its northern Tigray region. Both countries deny these allegations, fueling fears of broader conflict in the Horn of Africa.

Sudan's government lodged a complaint with the UN Security Council and the African Union's Peace and Security Council, alleging Ethiopia allowed RSF to use its territory to launch suicide drones against Sudanese infrastructure. Ethiopia closed Sudan's consulate in Assosa and expelled six diplomats within 48 hours. In response, Sudan closed Ethiopia's consulate in Gedaref and expelled its diplomats.

Ethiopia denies supporting the RSF in Sudan's civil war, which has displaced over 14 million people since April 2023. Sudan remains committed to defending its territory but seeks to avoid open conflict with Ethiopia.