Chad War refers to the current civil war in Chad. It is a conflict between the national government, led by Idriss Deby and supported by France, and several rebel groups allegedly supported by Sudan. The conflict erupted in December, 2005 and has involved several neighboring countries including Libya, Sudan, and Niger. Because of Chadian rebel group's affiliation with Janjaweed militias, the Chad War has largely become an extension of the conflict in Darfur.
Sudanese Involvment
President Idriss Deby has repeatedly accused Sudan, in particular Omar al-Bashir, of supporting Chadian rebels in the conflict. Deby asserts that al-Bashir has provided financial, military, and media support for the rebels. Additionally, he blames the deaths of 55 Chadian citizens on Sudan supported Janjaweed militias and the deaths of an additional 614 people on other cross-border raids. Sudan has denied all allegations of involvement.
Role in Darfur Conflict
The conflict in Chad has been linked to the conflict in Darfur due to the cross-border raids by Janjaweed militias and the more that 200,000 refugees from Sudan and the Central African Republic that have sought asylum in eastern Chad, the region controlled by rebels. Deby blames al-Bashir for allowing the Darfur conflict to spread into Chad as a means of destabilizing Chad's government.
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Chad War Background and Profiles
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Conflict began in December, 2005 after Idriss Deby attempted to change Chad's constitution
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Fact:
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December 18, 2005
The Battle of Adre, organized Chadian rebel groups launch an attack on military outposts from within Sudan
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Fact:
Chad blames Sudan for supporting rebel groups, Sudan denies involvement
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January 6, 2006
Janjaweed raiding parties attack several border towns in Chad
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February 8, 2006
Idriss Deby, Omar al-Bashir, and Moammar Gadhafi sign the Tripoli Agreement in Libya, ending conflict for one month
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April 13, 2006
Several hundred rebels attack NDjamena and are repelled
