A military airstrike in Sudan’s Tora region resulted in at least 54 deaths, predominantly women, according to aid organizations. The Sudanese military denies targeting civilians, while the attack represents another severe escalation in the ongoing conflict that began in April 2023, which has led to immense suffering and displacement across the nation.
On Tuesday, aid organizations reported that a military airstrike in Sudan killed at least 54 individuals at a market in the western region of Tora. This attack ignited a large fire, according to Adam Rejal, a spokesperson for the General Coordination, a group aiding displaced people in Darfur. Further, Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah of the Sudanese military asserted that civilians were not targeted, labeling the allegations as “incorrect.”
The airstrike devastated a significant portion of the weekly market located 80 kilometers north of el-Fasher, the North Darfur Province capital. Local support group Support Darfur Victims released harrowing footage depicting burned buildings and charred remains. Reports indicate that over half of the deceased were women, with additional casualties including at least 23 injuries and seven missing persons.
Rejal condemned this incident as “a crime against humanity and a clear violation of all international and humanitarian laws and conventions.” The city of el-Fasher remains under military control despite frequent attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This airstrike signifies another tragic event in a continuing conflict, which began in April 2023 following escalating tensions between the military and RSF.
This ongoing warfare has resulted in over 28,000 fatalities, displacing millions and leading some families to resort to consuming grass for survival amidst widespread famine. Further investigations suggest that the death toll may be significantly higher. Atrocities like mass rape and ethnic killings, categorized as war crimes, have been reported in Darfur, according to the UN and international rights organizations. Moreover, the military has achieved notable advancements against RSF forces in various regions, including Khartoum, and regained significant governmental control this month.
In summary, the military airstrike in Sudan tragically highlights the human cost of the ongoing conflict, leading to substantial loss of life, particularly among women. The response from local organizations emphasizes the nature of these actions as violations of humanitarian law. With the continuing violence, the humanitarian situation worsens, necessitating urgent attention and action from the international community to prevent further tragedies.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
