Drone Strike in North Kordofan Kills 24 Civilians, Including 8 Children; International Community Condemns Atrocities

The Rapid Support Forces' airstrike on February 7, 2026, has left at least 24 civilians dead, including eight children under two, in North Kordofan province. The attack targeted a vehicle carrying displaced families from the Dubeiker area, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis and lack of accountability for war crimes committed during Sudan's decades-long conflict.

Sudan has long been plagued by a complex web of conflicts that have pitted rival factions, ethnic groups, and foreign interests against each other. The latest escalation in violence comes at a particularly vulnerable moment, as the country teeters on the brink of collapse after years of economic mismanagement, corruption, and international isolation.

The Rapid Support Forces, a militia group linked to President Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's government, has long been accused of committing atrocities during Sudan's 2019-2020 civil war. The RSF was implicated in numerous human rights abuses, including mass killings, rapes, and ethnic cleansing, against civilians in the conflict-torn regions of Darfur and Western Kordofan.

Today's drone attack on displaced families in North Kordofan province marks a disturbing trend of increasing violence and disregard for civilian lives. The attack has sent shockwaves through the international community, prompting condemnation from humanitarian organizations and diplomats alike. As Sudan teeters on the brink of chaos, one thing is clear: the country's fragile peace process requires swift action to address the root causes of its conflicts and ensure accountability for those responsible.

The conflict in Darfur, which began in 2003, has been characterized by widespread human rights abuses, including mass killings, rapes, and ethnic cleansing. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has indicted several top officials, including President al-Bashir, for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the conflict.

The RSF's actions are part of this broader pattern of violence and impunity that has characterized Sudan's history. Promoting greater accountability for those responsible for human rights abuses and war crimes is also crucial to preventing further escalation.

Immediate assistance is needed for displaced families, including food, shelter, and medical care. The World Food Program (WFP) has reported that over 1 million people are currently displaced in Western Kordofan, with many more at risk of hunger and malnutrition. By taking these steps, we can help prevent further devastation in Sudan and promote a durable peace in the region.