Port Sudan faces drone attack from paramilitary forces
In Port Sudan, drones hit an airport and targeted a military base, according to officials, in what has been three consecutive days of military action from Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), France 24 and AFP reported on May 6th.
The national electricity company said drones also struck the main power substation of Port Sudan, leading to a power outage across the city.
Loud blasts shook Port Sudan early in the morning. UN Chief Antonio Guterres described the RSF assaults as a “worrying development threatening the protection of civilians and humanitarian operations.”
Port Sudan serves as the primary entry point for almost all humanitarian aid flowing into Sudan. Officials have declared famine in the country, with approximately 25 million people facing extreme hunger and life-threatening food shortages.
The Sudanese Electricity Distribution Company said it sent crews to the site to evaluate the harm caused. The strikes occurred just a day after Sudan’s major fuel depot was struck.
A traveller said to AFP that “fires broke out in multiple buildings” after the explosion. The conflict has slain tens of thousands and displaced 13 million, triggering the worst global hunger and displacement crises globally.
The war has effectively divided Sudan in two, according to The Guardian on May 6th. The army administers the centre, north, and east, while the RSF holds most of Darfur together with its allies, areas of the south.
Middle East Monitor via the Middle East Eye reported On February 28th that Turkey supplied drones to Sudan’s army to aid in its battle against the RSF. This move signals Ankara’s backing of Sudan’s military in this conflict. These drone supplies have enabled the army to carry out numerous offensives and counterattacks against the RSF.
Following the drone attacks, the UN suspended aid flights to Port Sudan, according to BBC on May 6th. Nonetheless, routine aid operations continue, stated Farhan Haq, the UN deputy spokesperson. “None of our offices, premises or warehouses have been impacted, and we continue to carry out our regular operation,” Haq said.
BBC, France 24 and AFP, The Guardian
