A drone strike on a residential house in el-Obeid, Sudan, has resulted in the death of at least 13 individuals, including eight children, according to reports from the Sudan Doctors’ Network. The tragedy underscores the escalating violence as the civil war between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) continues toward its third year.
This incident highlights the grave humanitarian crisis unfolding in Sudan, where widespread violence has displaced more than 11 million people. The United Nations has described the ongoing conflict as the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for international attention and aid.
Key Developments
- At least 13 fatalities confirmed, with eight victims identified as children.
- The strike reportedly targeted a family home in a residential area, raising concerns about civilian safety.
- No group has officially claimed responsibility, although the RSF is suspected of carrying out the attack.
- Witnesses report that the attack marks a significant escalation in the pattern of indiscriminate violence in the region.
Full Report
Details of the Attack
The drone strike occurred in a residential neighborhood of el-Obeid, a city currently under the control of Sudan’s army. The Sudan Doctors’ Network has described the event as part of a troubling trend of increasing indiscriminate attacks on civilian areas. Most of the deceased were said to be from the same family, emphasizing the horrific impact of the ongoing conflict on innocent lives.
Escalating Conflict
As violence escalates in Sudan, the armed conflict between the Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid Support Forces continues to evolve. Analysts note that el-Obeid is a strategic target due to its location between Khartoum and the Darfur region, where the RSF has established a parallel government and has faced allegations of genocide.
Recent Attacks
Prior to this drone strike, the RSF targeted a power plant in el-Obeid. Additionally, the Sudanese military reported an attempted drone strike by the RSF on the country’s largest hydro-electric dam near Merowe. These actions indicate a growing intensity in the RSF’s efforts to undermine military and civilian infrastructure as the violence persists.
Context & Previous Events
The ongoing civil war in Sudan has forced over 11 million people from their homes, prompting the UN and various aid agencies to label it the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. Both the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces face accusations of committing atrocities, while instances of widespread sexual violence have been reported as tools of warfare.
