Sudan reinforces Ethiopian border as tensions rise over drone strikes
May 7, 2026 (GEDAREF) – The Sudanese army has strengthened its military deployment in the localities of East Gallabat, Basunda, and the Al-Fashaga regions of Gedaref State bordering Ethiopia, military sources said on Thursday.
Tensions between Sudan and Ethiopia escalated after Khartoum accused Addis Ababa of involvement in drone strikes on Khartoum airport and other sites this week. Sudan claims the drones launched from an airbase in Bahir Dar, an allegation Ethiopia has denied.
Military sources told Sudan Tribune that the army began sending additional troops to Greater and Lesser Al-Fashaga, Basunda, and East Gallabat mid-week. The deployment aims to raise security readiness and address potential developments along the border.
On Tuesday, the Sudanese government said it reserved the right to respond to what it described as Ethiopian-Emirati aggression against Khartoum airport. Khartoum has increasingly accused Addis Ababa of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and training its elements inside Ethiopian territory.
Sources indicated the reinforcements include additional units and military hardware stationed at strategic locations. This deployment coincides with a state of security alert and intensive monitoring of movements along the eastern frontier.
Major General Youssهf Mohamed Ahmed Abu Sharb, commander of the Second Infantry Division, inspected troops of the Sixth Brigade in the Basunda sector. The field visit was intended to assess readiness and boost morale at forward deployment sites.
Addressing the troops, Abu Sharb stated that the “Battle of Dignity” relies on the determination of the nation’s sons. He emphasized that the armed forces depend on the readiness of regular personnel and reserve forces supporting military operations across various fronts.
The commander praised the role of the reserve forces, describing them as a fundamental part of the defence system and a safety valve for military operations in the region.
In 2020, Sudan entered into a confrontation with Ethiopia during which it reclaimed vast tracts of agricultural land that Addis Ababa had controlled for decades.
Armed groups linked to Ethiopia, known as “Shifta,” have historically targeted farmers during the rainy season to loot crops and livestock.