CHAD has issued a direct challenge to US military presence in another African nation, signalling its intent to terminate a crucial security agreement that governs the operations of American troops in the country. According to four sources familiar with the matter, Chadian officials conveyed their intent through a letter to the US defence attaché last week, putting at risk a significant American military foothold in the region.
‘The move blindsided US officials,’ one source told CNN, speaking on condition of anonymity. ‘Chad’s threat to terminate the SOFA agreement was unexpected.’
In the letter, sent to the US defence attaché last week, Chadian officials threatened to cancel the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), a pivotal arrangement that outlines the terms under which US military personnel can function within Chad. While the directive did not mandate an immediate departure of US forces, it specified that all American troops must vacate the French base in N’Djamena, Chad’s capital.
Notably, the letter bypassed formal diplomatic channels, a deviation from the standard protocol for handling such matters. This unorthodox approach has led some officials to speculate that the letter might serve as a bargaining tactic by the Chadian government to negotiate a new agreement more aligned with its interests.
‘The exact number of US troops in the country is not clear but one US official said there are fewer than 100 troops there,’ reported CNN.
The timing of Chad’s move raises concerns about the broader geopolitical landscape in Africa. Just weeks ago, the military administration in neighbouring Niger terminated its agreement with the US military, effectively barring American personnel from operating within the country.
CNN reported one source as saying that the leadership in Chad is following the example set by Niger, attempting to use an opportunity to extract more concessions from the US.
US diplomatic efforts are now intensifying to address the evolving situation in Chad and safeguard American interests amidst a complex geopolitical landscape. The US State Department has been approached for comment on the latest developments.
In response to Chad’s letter, the US Africa Command (AFRICOM) officials acknowledged encountering diplomatic hurdles, with certain clearances for military flights being denied or delayed. This has resulted in prolonged deployments for US forces in the region, impacting operational efficiency.
‘US Africa Command senior leaders continue to work closely with the State Department and others to ensure US forces deployed to Niger have the support and services they need,’ stated Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, head of US Africa Command.
Against the backdrop of Chad’s diplomatic manoeuvring, concerns persist about the broader implications for US-Africa relations and the strategic competition with Russia for influence in this critical region. US military leaders remain committed to preserving enduring partnerships with African nations, including Chad, to counterbalance external pressures and uphold regional stability.