Dilling Under Attack, Civilians Killed in South Kordofan Drone Strike

Escalation of Violence in Sudan’s South Kordofan Region

On Saturday, October 11, 2025, the city of Dilling in South Kordofan, Sudan, experienced a violent escalation as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) shelled the eastern al-Safa neighborhood. According to eyewitnesses and reports from a local rights group, this attack was followed by a drone strike attributed to the RSF and its ally, the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), which resulted in civilian casualties in a nearby area.

The Sudan Doctors’ Network reported that the SPLM-N, an allied force with the RSF, carried out shelling in Dilling, injuring 11 people, three of whom were critically injured. The Nuba Mountains Platform, a local advocacy group, also confirmed that a joint drone strike by the RSF and SPLM-N on the Dalami area led to civilian deaths and injuries.

Blockade and Humanitarian Crisis

The RSF and SPLM-N have imposed a strict blockade on Dilling and the neighboring city of Kadugli. This has severely restricted the flow of supplies and crops into the region, leading to a widespread hunger crisis, according to residents. The blockade has left many families without access to food, medical supplies, and other essential resources.

In response, the Sudanese army is attempting to break the siege by advancing on multiple fronts from neighboring North Kordofan. Their goal is to disrupt the RSF's supply lines and alleviate the suffering of the local population.

Allegations of Detention and Restrictions

The Nuba Mountains Platform has also accused the SPLM-N of detaining civilians, including university students, women, and children, within its controlled territories. The group claims that while traders are allowed to enter SPLM-N areas, residents are not permitted to leave for educational or medical purposes. This restriction has further exacerbated the humanitarian situation in the region.

The platform has threatened to block commercial goods from entering SPLM-N-controlled areas unless the detainees are released and aid is allowed into Dilling and Kadugli. This ultimatum highlights the growing tensions between local communities and the forces controlling the region.

Perilous Journeys for Residents

The blockade has forced some residents to undertake a dangerous, month-long journey to reach government-held towns. Normally, this trip would take only four hours, but due to the ongoing conflict and restrictions, it has become a perilous and life-threatening endeavor. Many families are now facing the risk of violence, disease, and starvation as they attempt to flee the region.

Ongoing Conflict and Uncertain Future

The situation in South Kordofan remains volatile, with both the RSF and SPLM-N continuing to exert control over key areas. The humanitarian crisis is worsening, and the lack of access to basic necessities is putting the lives of thousands of civilians at risk. As the conflict continues, the international community is closely monitoring the developments, with calls for increased aid and intervention to prevent further loss of life.