United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his deep concern and strong condemnation of the horrific reports that at least 30 civilians were killed and dozens more injured in a drone strike on the town of Kutum in South Darfur on December 8. This attack is the latest in a series of escalating violence in Sudan, raising widespread international concern for the safety of unarmed civilians in conflict zones.
Details of the attack and violations of international law
In an official statement, the Secretary-General strongly condemned all indiscriminate attacks targeting civilians and vital civilian infrastructure. Guterres stressed the need for all warring parties to adhere to their strict obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law. The statement noted that targeting residential areas and civilians constitutes a grave and intolerable violation, and called for ensuring the protection of civilians in all areas of active conflict within Sudanese territory.
Violence escalates in Darfur and Kordofan
This attack is not an isolated incident, but rather comes amid an alarming rise in the death toll from escalating violence in Darfur and Kordofan. Field reports indicate an intensification of airstrikes and the excessive use of drones, resulting in further civilian casualties. On the same day that Kutum was targeted, Kutum in North Darfur was also attacked, reflecting the expansion of military operations into densely populated areas that were previously considered relatively safe havens.
Background of the conflict and its humanitarian impact
Since mid-April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a cycle of ongoing violence stemming from the armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. This conflict has triggered one of the world's largest displacement crises, with millions of Sudanese fleeing their homes in search of safety, both within the country and in neighboring states. The Darfur region, already plagued by protracted conflicts, is among the hardest hit by the current war, where military clashes intersect with tribal tensions, exacerbating the suffering of the local population and hindering the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.
Calls for a ceasefire and a political solution
In closing his statement, António Guterres reiterated his urgent call for the warring parties to immediately agree to a cessation of hostilities, stressing that a military solution will not bring stability to Sudan. The Secretary-General called for the resumption of serious negotiations to achieve a permanent ceasefire and launch a comprehensive, inclusive, Sudanese-led political process that will put the country back on the path to democratic transition. Guterres affirmed the United Nations’ full readiness to support any serious steps aimed at ending the fighting and charting a course toward lasting peace that preserves the unity of Sudan and the dignity of its people.
