GENEVA – Radouan Nooker, a UN expert on human rights in Sudan, has expressed deep concern over the recent strengthening of drone strikes and the growing conflict in the Red Sea state of eastern Sudan.
“The reported availability of advanced long-range drone technology indicates a dramatic escalation that has taken the conflict to a new level and led to further worsening conditions for civilians,” he said in a statement Monday.
Nuker said since the start of the conflict in April 2023, Port Sudan, in the Red Sea, served as a lifeline of humanitarian operations and a heaven for those who were displaced internally.
“However, since May 4, due to the rapid support force (RSF), the unprecedented escalation of drone strikes targeting the city’s critical civil infrastructure has put civilian lives at risk and access to rights and basic services at risk,” said a UN expert.
“The key targeted infrastructure includes the city’s major current substations and fuel and gas storage facilities, and the international airport is a key access point for humanitarian operations and civilian movements,” said a UN expert.
He said many attacks were occurring near densely populated areas, and those evacuated internally were forced to move again in search of safety.
“Recurring attacks on serious infrastructure will put civilians at risk, exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and undermine basic human rights,” Nouicer warned.
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“The magnitude of these drone attacks represents a major escalation in the conflict and an astonishing implication for civilian protection.”
He expressed deep concern about the resulting widespread power losses and the impact on fuel supply. This disrupts access to essential rights, such as food, safe drinking water, and health care.
Experts say some Port Sudan and Cassala health facilities are already forced to work in reduced capabilities.
The recent strike in Port Sudan is part of an increasing pattern of RSF attacks on key infrastructure, including power plants in the North, the Nile River and White Nile provinces.
“Civil infrastructure is protected under international law and should not be a target. It is devastating to see the ongoing destruction and damage to Sudan’s infrastructure and social services,” stressed Nooker.
Sudan was caught up in a battle among the Army on April 15, 2023, with General Abdel Fatta al-Burhan heading the RSF, heading the ruling sovereign council, also known as the SAF, led by former Deputy Muhammed Hamdan Dagallo.
