Sudan's Minister of Culture, Information, Antiquities, and Tourism, Khalid Al-Aceiser, has escalated tensions with Ethiopia, accusing the country of permitting its territory and airports to be used by Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and launching drone attacks on civilian and service infrastructure within Sudan. In a statement released on November 3, 2026, Al-Aceiser demanded that the Ethiopian leadership immediately halt these actions.
Al-Aceiser alleged that Ethiopia, as the host country of the African Union, is contradicting the principles of the organization by allegedly harboring armed groups and mercenaries and allowing its territory to be used to attack neighboring countries. He accused Addis Ababa of permitting drones to target and destroy Sudan's infrastructure, including water, electricity, and fuel stations, describing these actions as contrary to the principles of good neighborliness and regional peace and security.
The Sudanese minister directly accused Ethiopia of allowing RSF forces to operate from its airports and territory, and also accused the country of permitting the Abu Dhabi government to supply the forces with weapons and equipment, including strategic arms and drones. Al-Aceiser described the RSF as a militia that has committed serious human rights abuses against Sudanese citizens, including killings motivated by ethnic and tribal affiliations.
Al-Aceiser questioned the effectiveness of African cooperation in promoting peace and stability, given Ethiopia's alleged actions, which he claimed undermine the principles that the African Union claims to defend. He emphasized that Sudan shares a common border with Ethiopia and has historical, humanitarian, economic, and demographic ties, and expressed regret that Ethiopia is providing a safe haven for RSF operations.
The minister stressed that Sudan remains committed to "diplomacy of last resort" and adheres to the principles of cooperation, respect for national sovereignty, and good neighborliness. However, he emphasized the need for Ethiopia to cease using its territory to launch attacks on Sudan. Al-Aceiser concluded his statement by warning Addis Ababa that respect for sovereignty and good neighborliness is a responsibility that cannot be postponed.
Al-Aceiser's statement highlights the escalating tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia, with Sudan demanding that Ethiopia take concrete actions to address its concerns. The situation remains a pressing concern for regional stability, with Sudan and Ethiopia having a long-standing relationship that could be impacted by the ongoing dispute.
The international community is closely watching the developments, as the conflict between Sudan and Ethiopia may have far-reaching implications for regional security and stability. Sudan's accusations against Ethiopia have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation and the need for diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.
Key points
- Sudan's Culture Minister accuses Ethiopia of supporting Rapid Support Forces.
- Ethiopia allegedly allows its territory to be used for drone attacks on Sudan.
- Sudan demands Ethiopia to cease using its territory to launch attacks.
