UN demands accountability after drone strike kills 31 civilians in Sudan

The United Nations has demanded accountability following a drone strike in Sudan's Blue Nile State that killed at least 31 civilians. The attack, which occurred near a displacement site in Wad Al Mahi, targeted mostly women and children, with dozens more injured. Denise Brown, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, expressed her horror at the reports, stating that the civilian death toll could rise as more information becomes available.

Brown emphasized that the area is under the control of the Sudanese Armed Forces and had been attacked in the previous week. The displaced individuals had fled recent fighting in Geissan and Kurmuk localities. Preliminary information suggested that at least 31 civilians, primarily women and children, were killed while dozens sustained injuries, some serious.

Brown condemned the attack, asserting that such killings are unacceptable and calling for accountability for disregarding international humanitarian law. She highlighted the pattern of violence against civilians displaced by Sudan's ongoing conflict, citing a similar attack in El Obeid, North Kordofan State, a week earlier, which also resulted in civilian casualties.

The UN official noted that parts of Blue Nile State have experienced continuous attacks, displacing thousands and exposing others to death, injury, and worsening hardship. Brown criticized the international community for its continued acceptance of Sudanese civilians' suffering, stating that the world appears to accept the war's devastating impact on the people of Sudan.

The latest drone strike occurred near a displacement camp in Abu Shandi, Wad Al Mahi, close to Damazin. The governor of Wad Al Mahi confirmed the attack, attributing it to an RSF drone, though the group has not commented publicly on the allegation. The Sudan Doctors Network independently reported the same casualty figures. The conflict began in April 2023, with tensions between the Sudanese army and the RSF escalating into open fighting, leading to widespread displacement and severe humanitarian needs.