Sudan’s Airstrikes Have Claimed Over 1,700 Civilian Lives, New Report Reveals

The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to catastrophic civilian casualties, with a recent investigation indicating that airstrikes conducted by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have killed at least 1,700 civilians since the fighting erupted in April 2023. The findings highlight a troubling pattern of indiscriminate bombings in populated areas, prompting widespread international condemnation.

Why It Matters

These aerial assaults not only alarm human rights advocates but also emphasize the strategic plight of civilians caught in the crossfire between rival factions. The alarming civilian death toll underscores a broader humanitarian crisis in Sudan, making it imperative for the international community to address these violations and hold accountable those responsible, regardless of their allegiance in the conflict.

Key Developments

• Sudanese airstrikes have led to the deaths of at least 1,700 civilians and over 1,120 injuries during attacks on residential areas, markets, and camps for displaced people.
• The Sudan Witness Project, which is backed by the British foreign ministry, conducted an extensive analysis of 384 military airstrikes from April 2023 to July 2025.
• The SAF reportedly uses unguided bombs in populated zones, raising severe concerns about the military’s compliance with international laws.
• Both the SAF and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been criticized for their actions, and both sides have been accused of committing war crimes.
• The severity of the airstrikes has led to calls for accountability at an international level, as more civilians bear the brunt of the conflict.

Full Report

Civilian Casualties and Airstrikes

According to the Sudan Witness Project, which relies on a large dataset of military airstrikes, there were 135 verified airstrikes on residential areas and 35 on commercial sites during the conflict. Many civilians died during busy market hours or in vulnerable locations such as hospitals and schools. The account also highlights a conservative estimate of casualties that could be significantly higher, given the challenges of verifying information in conflict zones.

While the SAF has denied targeting civilians, claiming their strikes are aimed at RSF positions, analysts argue that the frequency and nature of the attacks suggest a troubling disregard for human life. Mark Snoeck, who oversaw the project, argues that the pattern of bombings indicates a lack of adequate measures to protect civilians.

Several cases have come to light, including an airstrike that struck the Zamzam camp for displaced people, which was reportedly not under RSF control at the time. The lack of precision in targeting has resulted in numerous tragedies, fostering a sense of terror rather than targeted military success.

Impact on Civilians

The repercussions of these airstrikes extend beyond loss of life, complicating the already dire humanitarian situation. Justin Lynch from Conflict Insights Group emphasized that ordinary Sudanese citizens are suffering as they become collateral damage in the conflict between the SAF and the RSF. He pointed out that the air attacks tend to specifically target civilian locations rather than military assets, intensifying the humanitarian crisis.

Recent strikes have not only disrupted the daily lives of civilians but have also crippled economic stability in various regions. The bombing of al-Kuma market last October is one such incident, which left over 65 people dead and significantly affected local commerce and living conditions.

International Response

The international community has been urged to take action as reports of war crimes mount against both factions. A British foreign office official condemned the strikes as “a clear and unacceptable disregard for the safety of innocent Sudanese civilians,” emphasizing that accountability is crucial, regardless of the perpetrating side.

Context & Previous Events

Sudan’s civil conflict, which erupted in April 2023, has seen the SAF engage in airstrikes predominantly in regions controlled by the RSF, which has faced international condemnation for its alleged ethnic cleansing in Darfur. Notably, both the SAF and RSF have employed drone strikes and artillery in their fighting, often without regard for civilian safety. The complexity of the conflict continues to pose challenges to stabilization efforts and humanitarian aid delivery.