What's happened
Multiple drone and artillery attacks in Sudan's Kordofan region have targeted aid convoys, medical facilities, and civilian areas. The Rapid Support Forces deny involvement, blaming disinformation. The attacks have caused civilian casualties, destroyed aid supplies, and prompted international condemnation amid ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF.
What's behind the headline?
The recent drone and artillery attacks in Sudan's Kordofan region highlight the ongoing escalation of the conflict, with both sides intensifying their military operations. The RSF's denial of involvement and accusations of disinformation suggest a strategic effort to control the narrative and deflect blame. The targeting of aid convoys and medical facilities constitutes war crimes under international law, and the international community's condemnation underscores the gravity of these violations. The use of drones, including those operated from Egyptian bases, indicates a regional dimension to the conflict, with external actors potentially influencing the escalation. The continued targeting of humanitarian infrastructure will likely prolong the crisis, deepen civilian suffering, and hinder relief efforts. The conflict's trajectory suggests a worsening humanitarian disaster unless there is a significant de-escalation and renewed diplomatic engagement. The situation underscores the urgent need for independent investigations and international pressure to protect civilians and uphold international law.
What the papers say
All Africa reports detailed drone and artillery attacks targeting aid convoys and civilian infrastructure, with the RSF denying involvement and accusing others of disinformation. Al Jazeera highlights calls for sanctions against RSF leadership and condemns the attacks as war crimes, emphasizing the regional and international implications. The New York Times investigates the regional military involvement, including Egypt's covert airbase used for drone strikes, illustrating the broader regional stakes and the escalation of drone warfare. These contrasting perspectives reveal a complex picture: while Sudanese authorities and regional actors blame each other, international sources emphasize the severity of violations and the need for accountability.
How we got here
The conflict in Sudan escalated in April 2023, pitting the Sudanese Armed Forces against the Rapid Support Forces. The fighting has led to widespread displacement, humanitarian crises, and regional instability. Both sides have targeted aid routes and civilian infrastructure, complicating relief efforts and international response.
Go deeper
Common question
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What’s Causing the Escalation of Violence in Sudan?
Recent days have seen a sharp increase in violence across Sudan, especially in the Kordofan region. Drone and artillery strikes are targeting civilians, aid convoys, and medical facilities, worsening the humanitarian crisis. But what exactly is fueling this escalation? Understanding the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF is key to grasping the current situation and its broader implications for regional stability.
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Why Are Aid Convoys Being Attacked in Sudan?
Recent reports reveal that aid convoys in Sudan's Kordofan region are under frequent attack, hampering humanitarian efforts and endangering civilians. Understanding why these attacks happen, who is involved, and what it means for those caught in the conflict is crucial. Below, we answer key questions about the ongoing violence and its impact on aid and civilians.
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What’s Behind the Violence in Sudan and How It Affects Aid?
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to a surge in violence, impacting civilians and aid efforts alike. Understanding the root causes of this violence, how aid organizations are responding, and what the international community is doing can help clarify the complex situation. Below, we answer key questions about the crisis in Sudan and its wider implications.
More on these topics
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The Rapid Support Forces are Sudanese paramilitary forces operated by the Sudanese Government. The RSF grew out of, and is primarily composed of, the Janjaweed militias which fought on behalf of the Sudanese government during the War in Darfur, killing an
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Sudan, officially the Republic of the Sudan, is a country in North-East Africa. It is bordered by Egypt to the north, Libya to the northwest, Chad to the west, the Central African Republic to the southwest, South Sudan to the south, Ethiopia to the southe
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The World Food Programme is the food-assistance branch of the United Nations and the world's largest humanitarian organization addressing hunger and promoting food security.
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The Sudanese Armed Forces are the military forces of the Republic of the Sudan. During the 39-month transition to democracy that started in September 2019, the August 2019 Draft Constitutional Declaration defines the Supreme Commander of the Sudanese Arme