The Sudanese government has accused Ethiopia of providing support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, including weapons, mercenaries, and drone launchpads. According to Idris Muhammad Ali, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, these actions pose a serious threat to regional security and peace. He made these allegations during a press conference held in collaboration with the military intelligence, general intelligence, and the foreign ministry.
The press conference showcased images of drones that targeted the Merkhiyat power plant in northwest Omdurman on Tuesday, resulting in power outages in parts of Khartoum and the Nile River state. Reports from Sudanese sources indicated that the plant was hit by airstrikes, causing widespread disruptions before power was gradually restored late at night. The RSF launched a drone attack on a power plant in Khartoum on Tuesday, according to a source from the Sudanese Electricity Company.
The attack on the Merkhiyat power plant conversion station west of Omdurman affected the power supply in large parts of Khartoum and the Gezira state. This incident occurred a day after drone attacks targeted five power plants, causing power outages in extensive areas of eastern Sudan. The Sudanese Electricity Company reported that the attacks caused significant damage to the plants, resulting in power outages in four eastern and central states.
The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF has been ongoing since April 2023, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and the displacement of nearly 13 million people. The humanitarian crisis in the country continues to worsen. The Sudanese government has expressed its frustration with Ethiopia's actions, stating that it has practiced strategic patience but will not hesitate to defend its territory.
Deputy Minister Ali emphasized that Sudan reserves its natural and constitutional right to respond and defend its territorial unity by all means provided by international law. He called on the international community to take concrete steps to address the issue, stressing that Sudan's military and security agencies are the only entities capable of protecting the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The RSF's use of drones against civilian infrastructure has raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Sudan. The Sudanese government has repeatedly accused Ethiopia of providing support to the RSF, which has exacerbated the conflict. The international community has urged restraint and a return to negotiations to resolve the crisis.
The situation in Sudan remains volatile, with ongoing clashes between the Sudanese army and the RSF. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, with millions of people in need of assistance. The Sudanese government has reiterated its commitment to defending its territory and sovereignty, while calling for international support to address the crisis.
Key points
- Sudan accuses Ethiopia of providing support to Rapid Support Forces
- Conflict between Sudanese army and RSF has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displacement of 13 million people
- Humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to worsen
