The United Nations has issued a stark warning after reports of over 50 civilian deaths in Sudan due to drone strikes this week. UN human rights chief Volker Turk called the attacks a "devastating reminder" of escalating violence in the country's nearly three-year conflict between government forces and paramilitary groups.
🔍 What Happened: Between February 15 and 16, 2026, drone strikes hit markets, schools, and displacement shelters across Sudan's Kordofan region. The UN confirmed 28 deaths at Al Safiya market and 26 at a displacement camp in Al Sunut, with children among the victims. Two primary schools were also targeted in South Kordofan.
💔 Human Toll: UNICEF reported at least 15 children killed, with Executive Director Catherine Russell urging authorities to protect families fleeing "hunger and violence." Over 10 million people have been displaced since the conflict began in 2023.
📢 Global Response: Turk demanded an immediate end to attacks on civilian infrastructure, while the UN warned of worsening patterns seen earlier in Darfur. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have yet to respond publicly.
🌐 Why It Matters: With Greater Kordofan now a frontline, analysts fear the conflict could destabilize neighboring regions. Humanitarian groups are struggling to deliver aid amid collapsing infrastructure.
