A Sudanese official at the Ashkit border crossing in Wadi Halfa reported that the border had received a large influx of Sudanese citizens returning from Egypt, where they had fled due to the ongoing war.
According to the “Al-Sudani” news outlet, thousands of Sudanese are returning voluntarily, encouraged by recent military victories and improvements in the country’s security situation.
Some individuals who violated entry regulations have also been deported back to Sudan.
The official noted that in August, 7,890 Sudanese returned through the Ashkit crossing, while in September, that number increased to 12,539, with most being families.
The decision to return, particularly for these families, was motivated by the Sudanese army’s successes, including the reclaiming of Khartoum and other cities from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
The official also highlighted that a large number of returns coincided with calls from the governor of Khartoum, urging residents to come back following the stabilization of areas such as Omdurman, Bahri, and significant parts of the capital.
The official praised the efforts of Egyptian authorities in facilitating the voluntary return of Sudanese citizens through land crossings.
He added that an increased movement of families returning to Sudan is expected in the coming days at the Halfa crossings.
In a related development, the Egyptian Consul in Wadi Halfa confirmed that Sudanese authorities had halted medical convoys from Egypt, but Egypt remains ready to resume these missions once conditions allow.
According to “Sudan News,” a meeting took place between the Egyptian Consul and a delegation from the Supreme Council of Wadi Halfa, the Council for Coordination between Halfa and Aswan, customs agents, and the Wadi Halfa Chamber of Commerce.
The Egyptian Consulate recommended the delegation submit an official request to form a technical team from Egypt to address the city’s water crisis.
The Egyptian Consul also proposed that the local executive director invite a specialized Egyptian water team to visit Wadi Halfa in Sudan’s northern state to assess the situation and develop a comprehensive solution for the water shortage.
