Full Breakdown
Drone Strikes in Sudan: Civilian Casualties Rise Amid Ongoing Conflict
3/12/2026, 12:29:31 PM
Overview of Recent Attacks
On March 11, 2026, a drone strike attributed to Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) resulted in the deaths of at least 17 individuals, primarily schoolgirls, in the village of Shukeiri, located in the White Nile province. The attack also injured at least 10 others, including two teachers and a health care worker, according to reports from the Sudan Doctors Network and Dr. Musa al-Majeri, director of Douiem Hospital. This incident is part of a broader pattern of violence in Sudan's nearly three-year civil war, which has claimed over 40,000 lives, as reported by the United Nations.
Context of the Conflict
Sudan's civil war erupted in April 2023, following a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF. The RSF, which has been accused of numerous atrocities, including mass killings and sexual violence, has shifted its focus to the Kordofan region and the city of el-Fasher after being pushed out of Khartoum in March 2025. The UN has characterized the RSF's actions in el-Fasher as bearing "hallmarks of genocide," prompting investigations into potential war crimes by the International Criminal Court.
Impact on Civilians
The recent drone strike in Shukeiri is not an isolated incident. The RSF has been implicated in multiple attacks on civilian infrastructure, including schools and health facilities. Dr. Razan Al-Mahdi, a spokesperson for the Sudan Doctors Network, condemned the attack as a continuation of the RSF's violations against civilians. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with 21.2 million people facing acute food shortages and over 12 million displaced from their homes.
Official Responses
In response to the escalating violence, Sudan's Foreign Ministry condemned the RSF for systematic attacks on civilians and called for the United States to designate the RSF as a terrorist organization. The Ministry highlighted the need for accountability for groups that violate international humanitarian law.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the RSF have pointed to the increasing frequency of drone strikes and other violent acts against civilians as evidence of the group's disregard for human rights. The Sudan Doctors Network and various humanitarian organizations have called for international intervention to protect civilians and hold perpetrators accountable for war crimes.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While reports consistently indicate that the RSF is responsible for the recent drone strikes, there are discrepancies regarding the total number of casualties and the extent of injuries. Some sources report varying figures for the number of injured, highlighting the chaotic nature of the conflict and the challenges in obtaining accurate information.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This horrific crime represents a continuation of the violations committed by the RSF in the White Nile,” — Dr. Razan Al-Mahdi, Sudan Doctors Network
- “all groups that violate international humanitarian law and commit terrorism, crimes against humanity, and war crimes in Sudan should be designated as terrorist groups.” — Sudan Foreign Ministry
As the conflict in Sudan continues, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with calls for international action growing louder amidst the ongoing violence.
