An airstrike in Sudan killed at least 54, predominantly women, and sparked allegations of human rights violations. Aid groups condemned the incident as a crime against humanity. The ongoing conflict, which began in April 2023, has led to over 28,000 deaths and extensive displacement, with the military claiming recent territorial advances against the RSF.
On Tuesday, aid organizations reported that a military airstrike in Sudan resulted in the deaths of at least 54 individuals in the western region, particularly targeting a local market in Tora. Adam Rejal, a spokesperson for the General Coordination, mentioned that the airstrike, which occurred on Monday, resulted in extensive damage and fire in the area.
Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah, representing the Sudanese military, refuted claims that civilians were targeted, insisting that such accusations arise whenever the military exercises its rights against hostile targets. The airstrike significantly damaged the weekly market in Tora, located 80 km north of el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur Province.
Graphic footage shared by the group Support Darfur Victims depicted the aftermath, showing burned structures and charred bodies. Among the deceased, more than half were women; additionally, at least 23 individuals were injured, and seven were reported missing.
Rejal condemned the airstrike, labeling it “a crime against humanity” and a violation of international laws. Since April 2023, ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has escalated, resulting in significant destruction and human suffering across the nation.
This military action marks an increase in violence during the conflict which has already claimed over 28,000 lives and displaced millions, with some families resorting to eating grass to survive amid rampant famine. Reports from the UN and other human rights organizations have characterized the conflict by war crimes and atrocities in the Darfur region.
Despite these challenges, the Sudanese military has made incremental advances against the RSF, regaining vital control over strategic locations, including key governmental buildings in Khartoum. The situation remains dire, prompting urgent calls for humanitarian assistance and accountability for military actions against civilians.
The recent airstrike in Sudan emphasizes the escalating violence that has characterized the conflict since April 2023, leading to substantial loss of life and humanitarian crises. The Sudanese military’s claims of targeting hostile forces contradict reports from relief organizations, raising concerns over human rights violations. Ongoing military advancements against the RSF coincide with a dire humanitarian landscape, as millions struggle for survival amid the violence.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
