Sudan drone strikes kill 33 in West Kordofan market attacks

Drone strikes have caused significant civilian casualties in Sudan, including a recent attack on two markets in the West Kordofan state. In the towns of Abu Zabad and Wad Banda, strikes killed 33 people and injured 59 others, according to medical sources. While a military source denied targeting civilians, claiming they only target rebels and weapons depots, the attacks have intensified the humanitarian crisis in the Kordofan region.

According to the United Nations, drone strikes were responsible for over 80% of civilian casualties in Sudan during the first half of the year. The conflict has evolved into a sophisticated drone war, highlighting the ineffectiveness of international arms embargoes. The Sudanese army reportedly utilizes drones from Iran, Pakistan, and Turkey, while the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) employ Chinese and Turkish drones.

These aerial attacks have triggered mass displacement, including the flight of over 15,000 families near El Obeid. The conflict continues to fuel one of the world's largest displacement and hunger crises, with tens of thousands killed since the war began in April 2023.