Civilian Casualties Mount in Sudan's Prolonged Conflict
At least 69 civilians were killed this week in separate drone strikes targeting populated areas in Sudan, marking one of the deadliest 48-hour periods since fighting erupted between government forces and paramilitary groups in April 2023.
Abu Zabad Transport Attack
On March 10, 2026, a transport truck carrying 90 passengers in West Kordofan state's Abu Zabad district was struck by a drone, killing 52 people. Local medical workers confirmed most victims were women traveling to a regional market, along with several children and men. Overcrowded hospitals struggled to treat survivors amid critical supply shortages.
School-Health Center Bombing
A second strike hit Shukairi village near Kosti on March 11, destroying a combined school-health facility. The attack killed 17 people including nine students, three teachers, and five medical personnel. The Sudanese Doctors Network condemned the strike as a deliberate violation of international humanitarian law.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The attacks coincide with intensified fighting between Sudan's army and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), particularly around strategic Kosti. Artillery shelling and drone warfare have displaced over 12,000 residents this month alone, according to UN estimates. Aid organizations warn collapsing infrastructure and blocked supply routes threaten famine conditions in multiple states.
Neither side has claimed responsibility for this week's strikes. The conflict has now displaced 8.6 million people nationwide since April 2023, with 15,000 conflict-related deaths verified by independent monitors.
