Drone Attacks in Sudan: A Humanitarian Catastrophe

A drone strike by Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on February 6, 2026, targeted a vehicle carrying displaced families near the city of Rahad in North Kordofan province, resulting in the deaths of at least 24 individuals, including eight children and two infants. The vehicle was transporting families fleeing violence in the Dubeiker area, as reported by the Sudan Doctors Network. This incident follows a similar attack on a World Food Programme (WFP) convoy, which killed one person and injured several others while delivering essential food assistance to displaced communities.

RSF drone attack kills 24 people fleeing fighting in central Sudan, says doctors groupSudan: Suspected RSF drone attack on aid convoy kills dozensKyabram Free PressParamilitary RSF launches drone attack, killing dozens in Sudan, including children: doctors networkUN, US condemn RSF drone strikes on aid deliveries in famine-hit Sudan

The RSF has been engaged in a brutal conflict with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) since April 2023, when a power struggle escalated into widespread violence. This conflict has resulted in over 40,000 deaths and displaced more than 14 million people, creating the world's largest humanitarian crisis. The situation in Kordofan has become increasingly dire, with reports of famine conditions and acute malnutrition affecting millions.

RSF drone attack kills 24 people fleeing fighting in central Sudan, says doctors group

Denise Brown, the UN humanitarian coordinator in Sudan, condemned the attacks, emphasizing that they undermine efforts to provide life-saving assistance to those in need. The Sudan Doctors Network described the drone strikes as a "blatant violation of international humanitarian law" and called for an independent investigation. The United States, through Senior Advisor Massad Boulos, echoed these sentiments, demanding accountability for the destruction of humanitarian aid and the loss of life.

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Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry also criticized the RSF's actions, labeling the drone strikes as disgraceful. In contrast, the United Arab Emirates has denied allegations of supporting the RSF, despite being accused of supplying weapons and financial aid to the group.

Critics have pointed out that the RSF's attacks on humanitarian convoys represent a significant escalation in the conflict, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The North Kordofan state government has urged the international community to impose sanctions on the RSF leadership, highlighting the urgent need for stronger measures to protect humanitarian workers and infrastructure.

UN, US condemn RSF drone strikes on aid deliveries in famine-hit Sudan

While the UN estimates the death toll from the conflict at over 40,000, some observers believe the actual number could be much higher. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has reported that famine conditions are spreading in Darfur, with acute malnutrition expected to worsen in 2026. However, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the full extent of the humanitarian crisis, particularly regarding the number of casualties and those affected by food insecurity.

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As the conflict continues, there are calls for immediate international intervention to address the escalating humanitarian crisis. Diplomatic efforts, including potential ceasefire negotiations, are underway, but the situation remains precarious as violence persists across the region. The international community faces mounting pressure to respond effectively to the ongoing atrocities and provide much-needed aid to the millions affected by this devastating conflict.