In a move likely to exacerbate already strained relations, Ethiopia has considered all Sudanese consulate staff in Asosa, the capital of Benishangul-Gumuz region, as unwanted persons. This development comes amid increasing tensions between the two nations, with Sudan accusing Ethiopia of involvement in the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Details about the Ethiopian decision and whether a formal notice was issued to the Sudanese side are still unclear.
The city of Asosa has become a focal point in Sudan's accusations against Ethiopia. On October 31, the Sudanese Foreign Ministry alleged that Ethiopian authorities allowed the use of Asosa airport and base to supply the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) with weapons and equipment. They also claimed that Ethiopia facilitated the movement of foreign fighters and used its territory as a launchpad for drone attacks inside Sudan.
Sudan's Deputy Foreign Minister, Maawia Osman Khaled, presented what the authorities described as evidence to representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Sudan. He stated that Khartoum seeks to address the crisis through diplomatic channels while reserving the right to defend its sovereignty according to international law. This presentation occurred as Sudan continues to face internal conflict.
On November 1, the Sudanese Foreign Ministry announced that it had filed formal complaints against Ethiopia with the UN Security Council and the African Union's Peace and Security Council. Khartoum accuses Addis Ababa of allowing its territory to be used for drone attacks on civilian sites and vital facilities within Sudan. Sudan's Sovereign Council reported 70 attacks between February 15 and October 27, 2026.
According to the Sudanese Sovereign Council, the drone attacks resulted in the deaths and injuries of hundreds of civilians and military personnel. The council identified launch sites for the drones, including Asosa airport and a border area between Karkam and Kaisan. These allegations have contributed to the deterioration of relations between the two countries.
The tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia extend beyond border disputes, with each side trading accusations of supporting opposing factions in the conflict. Ethiopia has denied Sudan's allegations of supporting the RSF or using its territory for attacks. In turn, Sudan's military has been accused by Ethiopia of backing elements linked to the Tigray People's Liberation Front.
The decision to expel Sudanese consulate staff, if confirmed, marks a new chapter in the diplomatic crisis between the two nations. The situation has escalated from political and military accusations to formal complaints before international and regional institutions. This development highlights the deepening rift between Sudan and Ethiopia.
Key points
- Ethiopia declared Sudanese consulate staff in Asosa as "persona non grata."
- Sudan accuses Ethiopia of supporting Rapid Support Forces and launching drone attacks.
- Diplomatic tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia have escalated, with both nations exchanging accusations.
