Eastern Sudan is experiencing growing tensions between factions of the “Joint Force” composed of armed movements from Darfur and local militias from Eastern Sudan, notably led by Sheiba Darar, leader of the Eastern Sudanese Parties Coalition. The situation risks escalating into war as the Sudanese army integrates disparate forces into its conflict strategy.

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The conflict revolves around the rejection by local militias of the presence of Darfuri armed movements in Port Sudan. These movements were introduced by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the army, to support his fight against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Opponents are calling for these movements to return to Darfur, according to published statements.

The “Free Beja Youth Movement,” one of the militias aligned with Burhan, has voiced concerns about the Darfuri forces’ presence in the East, claiming it poses a threat to the region’s security and stability. In a statement, the group announced plans to fully close the borders of Eastern Sudan to compel these movements to leave.

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The group also warned that the presence of external armed forces threatens the social fabric of the region, which has historically thrived on peaceful coexistence among its communities, criticizing divisive rhetoric that stokes ethnic tensions.

Separately, Minni Arko Minnawi, Governor of Darfur and leader of the Sudan Liberation Movement, recently attacked the Sudanese military leadership. He accused certain figures of orchestrating media campaigns against the Darfuri armed movements following the publication of a document by journalist Rashan Oshi, who is closely linked to the army. This document, stemming from a meeting between armed movement leaders and Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim, reportedly discussed the redistribution of transitional government powers and resources.

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Khalid Omar Youssef, a member of the Coordinating Body for Civil Democratic Forces, asserted that the army is complicit in the internal conflicts within the “Port Sudan Alliance,” which he said is worsening the situation. He described the war as “criminal,” serving only to amass power and wealth at the expense of the population.

The situation was further complicated by the army‘s introduction of the “Eastern Ourta Forces,” a newly formed militia led by Amin Daoud. Originating from the Beja-Beni Amer tribe, this group has recently expanded into Kassala, escalating tensions with Darfuri forces and other local factions.

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The “Eastern Ourta Forces” are suspected of having received military training in Eritrea, heightening fears of escalating conflict in Eastern Sudan.