Sudan’s government has sharply escalated its diplomatic confrontation with Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), accusing both countries of involvement in recent drone attacks that targeted key infrastructure in the war-torn nation, including Khartoum International Airport.
The accusations came after a series of attacks disrupted operations at the airport, forcing Sudanese authorities to suspend flights and airport activities for three consecutive days. Sudanese officials described the strikes as a dangerous escalation in the country’s ongoing conflict and warned that the attacks would not go unanswered.
In response, Sudan announced on Tuesday that it had recalled its ambassador from Ethiopia for consultations, signaling a major deterioration in relations between Khartoum and Addis Ababa. Sudanese authorities alleged that Ethiopia, together with the UAE, played a role in supporting or facilitating the drone operations, though detailed evidence has not yet been publicly released.
The Sudanese government stated that the attacks represented a violation of national sovereignty and regional stability. Officials warned that continued foreign interference in Sudan’s internal conflict could further destabilize the Horn of Africa and neighboring regions already facing political and humanitarian challenges.
Neither Ethiopia nor the UAE immediately accepted the accusations. Both countries have previously denied involvement in Sudan’s internal military conflict. The UAE has repeatedly called for dialogue and humanitarian solutions in Sudan, while Ethiopia has maintained that it supports regional peace and non-interference.
Sudan has been engulfed in a devastating conflict since fighting erupted between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The war has caused widespread destruction, displacement, and a severe humanitarian crisis affecting millions of civilians.
Analysts say the latest accusations reflect growing concerns about the increasing use of drones and external actors in regional conflicts. The expansion of drone warfare has complicated peace efforts and raised fears that Sudan’s conflict could evolve into a broader regional confrontation involving neighboring countries and foreign interests.
The temporary closure of Khartoum International Airport further disrupted humanitarian operations, commercial activities, and civilian travel at a time when Sudan is already struggling with shortages of food, medicine, and basic services.
International observers and regional organizations are now urging restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation. Several African and Middle Eastern leaders have called for independent investigations into the attacks while emphasizing the need for dialogue to avoid a wider regional crisis.
As tensions continue to rise, many Sudanese civilians remain caught in the middle of a conflict that has increasingly drawn international attention and concern over the future stability of Sudan and the wider region.
