On Sunday, September 27, 2026, airstrikes targeted two Sudanese cities, Nyala and Wad Madani, witnesses reported to AFP. The attacks occurred despite growing pressure for a ceasefire between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who have been at war since April 2023. The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions of people.
The airstrikes on Nyala, the capital of South Darfur, and a major RSF stronghold, were confirmed by multiple witnesses. They reported hearing an airplane in the sky, followed by two explosions. One witness saw smoke rising above the city, with RSF forces blocking roads and encircling the area. The city has been a key location in the conflict, with the RSF maintaining a significant presence.
In addition to Nyala, a drone strike was reported on a major fuel depot near Wad Madani, the capital of Al-Jazira state. This was the first attack on the city since the military recaptured it from the RSF last year. Witnesses described seeing a drone hit the fuel tanks, causing a fire that could be seen from a distance. The depot supplies several central Sudanese states.
The airstrikes occurred amid heightened tensions between the Sudanese army and the RSF. The army's leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has vowed to continue fighting against his former deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who leads the RSF. Al-Burhan has refused to yield to international pressure for a ceasefire, stating that the goal is to "eliminate this militia, no matter how long it takes."
The conflict has drawn international attention, with the United States conditioning a visa for al-Burhan on his acceptance of a three-month truce with the RSF. However, Khartoum rejected the proposal, believing it would benefit the paramilitary forces. The RSF has been accused of committing atrocities in the conflict, while the army has faced criticism for its role in the violence.
The humanitarian situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, with over 55,000 Sudanese fleeing to Chad since January, according to the United Nations. The conflict has created a significant refugee crisis, with many more displaced within Sudan. International efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful, with both sides showing little willingness to compromise.
The Sudanese conflict has regional implications, with Egypt and other neighboring countries closely monitoring the situation. The international community remains concerned about the humanitarian impact of the conflict and the potential for further destabilization in the region.
Key points
- The airstrikes on Nyala and Wad Madani occurred despite calls for a ceasefire between the Sudanese army and the RSF.
- The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced millions of people.
- The humanitarian situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, with over 55,000 Sudanese fleeing to Chad since January.
