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Drone Attacks Threaten Civilians and Disrupt Aid in Sudan

Moatinoon
The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the escalating use of drone attacks, which continue to put civilians at risk. A wave of strikes has been reported across several Sudanese states in recent days.

Earlier yesterday, a drone was reportedly shot down over Khartoum International Airport, leading to the suspension of flights, according to UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric during the daily press briefing. He noted that the airport is a vital lifeline for ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid.

In Al Jazirah State, local sources reported that five members of the same family—including women and children—were killed last Saturday. In White Nile State, a fuel station and a fuel tanker were struck near the city of Kosti. Meanwhile, in North Kordofan State, the state television building in El Obeid, the state capital, sustained damage.

Drone attacks have also intensified in the Darfur region. Strikes were reported today in West Darfur State, while an earlier strike two days ago in Nyala, South Darfur State, injured at least five people and damaged buildings located near offices of humanitarian organizations.

Stéphane Dujarric stated that insecurity is forcing people to flee their homes. Over the past week, more than 2,600 people have been displaced in North Kordofan State, and around 1,000 people in South Kordofan State, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Currently, nearly 9 million people are estimated to be internally displaced within Sudan, while approximately 4.5 million others have fled to neighboring countries since the outbreak of the conflict more than three years ago.

The United Nations reiterated the need for all parties to the conflict to respect international humanitarian law at all times, stressing the obligation to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. It also emphasized the importance of ensuring sustained and unhindered humanitarian access to those most in need.