UN reports surge in civilian casualties from drone attacks in Sudans Kordofan

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk addressed the Human Rights Council in Geneva, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan’s Kordofan region. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces has resulted in widespread bloodshed and civilian casualties.

Turk stated that the situation is “grim” and warned that inaction would lead to further atrocities unless decisive steps are taken by the international community. He emphasized the need for accountability, particularly regarding atrocity crimes committed by the paramilitary forces during their takeover of el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur.

The UN human rights chief reported on harrowing survivor testimonies from el-Fasher, detailing mass killings and grave violations targeting civilians. Turk also highlighted the increasing use of advanced drone weaponry systems by both warring parties, resulting in dozens of civilian deaths and injuries.

According to Turk’s office, over 90 civilian deaths and 142 injuries have been documented due to drone strikes carried out by both sides since late January. Recent incidents include a drone attack on a vehicle transporting displaced families, killing at least 24 people, including eight children. The attacks follow a series of drone strikes on humanitarian aid convoys and fuel trucks across North Kordofan.

Turk also mentioned the destruction caused by RSF attacks on Sudan’s Merowe Dam and its hydroelectric power station, which has disrupted power and water supplies to large numbers of people with significant impacts on healthcare. The UN human rights chief urged the international community to take decisive action to stop the fighting and protect civilians.

Source: Al Jazeera