Key Facts
The United Nations has reported that drone strikes killed over 1,000 civilians in Sudan during the first five months of 2026. The conflict, now in its fourth year, has seen a sharp escalation in aerial attacks and widespread sexual violence.
Details of the Report
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk addressed the Human Rights Council in Geneva, stating that his office documented a 'sharp increase' in drone attacks. He noted that between January and May 2026, more than 1,000 civilians lost their lives due to drone strikes. 'In Sudan, the horrific conflict has expanded and escalated, marked by a sharp increase in the use of drone warfare,' Turk said.
The war began on April 15, 2023, when a power struggle between the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) erupted into open fighting in Khartoum and other regions. According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), at least 59,000 people have been killed over three years, though the actual toll is likely higher due to reporting challenges.
Impact on Civilians
Drone attacks have become the deadliest threat to civilians. ACLED recorded at least 2,670 deaths from drone strikes in 2025, a 600% increase in drone-related fatalities and an 81% rise in drone attacks compared to 2024. A recent RSF drone strike on a cemetery and gas station in el-Obeid killed 15 people.
Both warring parties have used explosive-laden drones to target civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, markets, and displacement camps. UK Minister for Africa and International Development Jenny Chapman condemned the attacks, saying, 'Sudan's warring parties have increased their brutality from the skies, using drones supplied by their backers to target civilians and aid workers. This is deplorable and must stop.'
Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict has created the world's largest humanitarian crisis, with about 34 million people—nearly two-thirds of Sudan's population—in need of assistance, according to the UN. Urban areas have been devastated, and atrocities including mass rape and ethnically motivated killings amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. Turk added, 'Rape and sexual violence are rampant.'
What Readers Should Know
- Drone strikes have killed over 1,000 civilians in Sudan from January to May 2026.
- The UN has documented a sharp increase in drone attacks and sexual violence.
- The war between the Sudanese military and RSF has caused at least 59,000 deaths since April 2023.
- Civilian infrastructure like hospitals and schools are being deliberately targeted.
FAQ
How many civilians died in Sudan drone strikes in early 2026?
Over 1,000 civilians were killed by drone strikes between January and May 2026, according to the UN.
What did the UN say about sexual violence in Sudan?
UN High Commissioner Volker Turk stated that rape and sexual violence are rampant in the conflict.
Which groups are involved in the Sudan war?
The war is between the Sudanese military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Source: www.ndtv.com