A prominent Sudanese leader, Khalid Omar Yousif, has accused the two warring parties in Sudan of using drones to target civilians and infrastructure, further escalating the conflict. In a statement to Radio Dabanga, Yousif, a key figure in the Revolutionary Democratic Forces Alliance (Sammad) and deputy chairman of the Sudanese Congress Party, expressed concern over the increasing use of drones by both sides. This development has led to a new wave of attacks, causing significant harm to civilians.
According to Yousif, recent days have seen a surge in airstrikes by the Sudanese army and its drones on populated areas in Darfur and Kordofan, resulting in the deaths of dozens of civilians. In retaliation, the Rapid Support Forces' drones have targeted power transmission lines, fuel stations, and other critical infrastructure. The attacks have also claimed the lives of children in the capital, Khartoum. Yousif warned that this escalation poses a significant threat to civilians, who are already suffering due to the lack of security and basic services.
Yousif noted that both parties have realized that a military victory is unlikely in the near future. As a result, their objectives have shifted to preventing the other side from achieving a decisive victory or establishing a stable and legitimate government. This change in strategy has led to civilians and civilian infrastructure becoming prime targets, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Yousif emphasized that the continued use of drones against civilians will only worsen the suffering of the Sudanese people.
The situation in Sudan has garnered international attention, with 23 countries recently issuing a statement warning of the risk of famine in the country. Yousif stressed that the only way to address the crisis is to stop the war and for both parties to agree to a ceasefire without conditions. He welcomed the US proposal for a truce, which aims to restore normalcy to the country. However, it remains to be seen whether both parties will accept the proposal and commit to a lasting peace.
The conflict in Sudan has been ongoing for some time, with the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces engaging in a power struggle. The use of drones has added a new dimension to the conflict, increasing the risk of civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Yousif's comments highlight the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis, as the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate.
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation in Sudan, with many countries expressing concern over the escalating violence. The UN and other humanitarian organizations have called for an immediate ceasefire and a return to peace talks. Yousif's statement underscores the need for a negotiated settlement to the conflict, rather than a military victory.
The Sudanese people have been suffering greatly due to the ongoing conflict, with many facing severe shortages of food, water, and other essential services. The use of drones has only added to their misery, as they become increasingly vulnerable to attack. Yousif's call for a ceasefire and a return to peace talks offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution to the crisis, but it remains to be seen whether both parties will respond positively.
Key points
- The warring parties in Sudan have resorted to using drones to target civilians and infrastructure, escalating the conflict.
- The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian suffering, with many civilians facing severe shortages of food, water, and other essential services.
- International pressure is mounting on both parties to agree to a ceasefire and return to peace talks.