Port Sudan Endures Sixth Consecutive Day of Drone Strikes Amid Escalating Conflict
Port Sudan, the eastern Sudanese city serving as the nation’s temporary capital, experienced its sixth consecutive day of drone attacks on Friday, intensifying the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Eyewitnesses reported plumes of smoke rising near the Red Sea port, while the army’s air defenses responded with heavy anti-aircraft fire.
Since Sunday, the RSF has targeted both civilian and military infrastructure in Port Sudan, including fuel depots, power stations, and the international airport. These attacks have disrupted humanitarian aid deliveries and caused widespread power outages, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian crisis in the region.
The Sudanese army has accused the RSF of being behind these drone strikes, though the RSF has not publicly claimed responsibility. In response to the escalating violence, Sudan announced on May 6 that it would sever diplomatic ties with the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of supporting the RSF—a claim the UAE denies.
The conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in over 24,000 deaths and displaced approximately 13 million people, according to the United Nations.
The recent escalation in Port Sudan marks a significant shift in the RSF’s tactics, moving from ground incursions to drone warfare, and threatens to further destabilize the region.
International organizations have condemned the attacks, emphasizing the need for all parties to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of civilians and aid workers.
The United Nations has temporarily suspended all humanitarian flights in and out of Port Sudan due to safety concerns.
As the conflict continues, the humanitarian situation in Sudan remains critical, with millions facing extreme hunger and limited access to essential services. The international community continues to call for an immediate ceasefire and a return to negotiations to resolve the crisis.
