UN Expert Condemns Rising Drone Strikes and Civilian Suffering in Sudan

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UN Expert Condemns Rising Drone Strikes and Civilian Suffering in Sudan

Escalation of Drone Strikes in Sudan Sparks International Concern

On October 24, 2025, the United Nations’ designated expert on Sudan, Radhouane Nouicer, issued a statement expressing deep concern over the recent surge in drone strikes by both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The expert warned that the increasing use of drones poses a severe threat to civilian populations and exacerbates an already dire humanitarian situation.

Nouicer highlighted the RSF’s drone attacks on Khartoum International Airport, which occurred just days before its planned reopening on October 21 and 22. These strikes not only disrupted critical infrastructure but also raised serious concerns about the safety of civilians in the region. Additionally, on October 21, RSF drones targeted dams and electricity infrastructure in Blue Nile and Sennar states, resulting in injuries to six technical workers and widespread power outages across the area.

The UN expert emphasized that the intensified use of drone strikes is putting civilian lives at significant risk, further deepening the humanitarian crisis and destabilizing the country. “This escalation has the potential for far-reaching consequences beyond Sudan’s borders,” Nouicer stated in a press release.

Over the past few weeks, multiple deadly attacks have been reported, with devastating effects on civilian populations. In the besieged city of El Fasher, increased drone attacks by the RSF on a shelter for internally displaced persons on October 10 and 11 resulted in the deaths of at least 57 civilians. This tragic incident underscores the growing danger faced by vulnerable communities in conflict zones.

Subsequently, on October 19 and 20, SAF drones targeted multiple locations in North and West Darfur, killing at least 13 civilians and causing extensive damage to homes, markets, and public buildings. These attacks highlight the indiscriminate nature of drone warfare and the urgent need for measures to protect civilians.

In the Kordofan region, both factions have engaged in intensified drone warfare, leading to significant civilian casualties. On October 17, a SAF drone strike in El Mazroub, North Kordofan, killed at least 18 civilians. Five days earlier, an RSF drone strike in Dalami, South Kordofan, claimed the lives of at least four civilians. These incidents demonstrate the escalating violence and the urgent need for de-escalation.

Nouicer stressed that the continued targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure violates international humanitarian law and contradicts the commitments made by all parties to protect civilians. “Concrete measures are urgently needed to protect civilians and ensure accountability,” he added.

The expert called on both the SAF and RSF to cease attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, de-escalate the situation, and prioritize the protection of vulnerable populations. The international community must also play a role in ensuring that these violations are addressed and that those responsible are held accountable.

As the conflict in Sudan continues to escalate, the humanitarian impact on civilians remains severe. The use of drones in warfare has introduced new challenges, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish between military and civilian targets. This situation demands immediate action from all stakeholders to prevent further loss of life and to restore stability in the region.

Key Incidents Highlighting the Crisis

  • The RSF drone attacks on Khartoum International Airport on October 21 and 22 disrupted critical infrastructure and raised concerns about civilian safety.
  • Dams and electricity infrastructure in Blue Nile and Sennar states were targeted, resulting in injuries and power outages.
  • In El Fasher, drone attacks on a shelter for internally displaced persons on October 10 and 11 led to the deaths of at least 57 civilians.
  • SAF drone strikes in North and West Darfur on October 19 and 20 killed at least 13 civilians and damaged key infrastructure.
  • In the Kordofan region, drone strikes in El Mazroub and Dalami caused significant civilian casualties.


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