SPLM-N rebels attacked Kadugli, killing at least 44 civilians, including Imam Nizar Mohamed Tom, and wounding 28 others. Sudanese officials condemned the assault as a brutal act against civilians, while military forces claimed to have regained control and inflicted heavy losses on the rebels. The conflict contributes to a widespread humanitarian catastrophe, with millions displaced and at risk of famine.
At least 44 civilians have died, and 28 others are injured due to an artillery attack in Kadugli, South Kordofan, attributed to the SPLM-N faction led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu. The attack targeted the capital city and resulted in significant civilian casualties, including women and children, as noted by Sudanese officials. Imam Nizar Mohamed Tom, a local religious leader at the Kadugli Old Mosque, was among those killed.
Governor Mohamed Ibrahim Abdel Karim condemned the assault as a “brutal aggression against civilians” and stated that the Sudanese army retaliated, inflicting substantial losses on the SPLM-N forces. Sudanese military officials claimed to have regained control in Kadugli following the attack, seizing weapons and equipment from the rebels.
This violence in South Kordofan intensifies amid ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 2023. The United Nations estimates that the brutal fighting has resulted in over 20,000 deaths and displaced nearly 14 million people, while some US academic research suggests the figure could be as high as 130,000.
As the conflict expands across 13 states, international organizations are alerting to a looming humanitarian crisis, significantly increasing the risks of famine and death due to inadequate food supplies. The situation remains dire as millions in Sudan face increasing hardship due to escalating violence and disruptions to resources.
The situation in Sudan has deteriorated since the outbreak of conflict between the Sudanese army and various rebel factions, particularly the SPLM-N. Since 2011, the SPLM-N has been engaged in a protracted struggle for greater autonomy in South Kordofan and the Blue Nile regions. The ongoing civil unrest has led to significant civilian casualties and widespread displacement, highlighting the urgency of international humanitarian assistance and conflict resolution efforts.
The recent attack by SPLM-N forces in Kadugli underscores the ongoing violence and instability in Sudan. With substantial civilian casualties and the expansion of conflict across the country, the situation could worsen without timely intervention. The international community needs to address the humanitarian crisis urgently, as millions face starvation and displacement due to continuous fighting.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
