El Obeid faces devastating drone strikes as humanitarian crisis escalates amid Sudan conflict

El Obeid, a city in Sudan, has become a focal point of violence as drone strikes intensify, with over 20 fatalities reported following attacks on schools and fuel stations this past weekend. Aid workers reveal that the situation is deteriorating rapidly, with the city hosting around 100,000 refugees amid ongoing conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Drone Strikes Intensify in El Obeid

According to an aid volunteer named Fatima, the recent drone strikes in El Obeid represent the most severe escalation yet, with an alarming count of 40 to 45 drones observed in recent months. The city, with a population of approximately 500,000, is facing a humanitarian disaster as essential services are targeted, leading to widespread fear and displacement.

Amnesty International has reported on the RSF's actions in the region, citing ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity in their campaign. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, emphasized the urgent need for global action to prevent further atrocities, stating, “The signs from El Obeid are clear and unmistakable: another human rights catastrophe is unfolding in Sudan.”

Impact on Civilians and Infrastructure

The UN human rights office documented at least 45 casualties and 41 injuries from 15 drone strikes between June 6 and June 28. Damage has been reported to critical infrastructure, including electricity generation and fuel storage facilities. An independent report from the Yale Humanitarian Research Lab noted that the attacks appear to be intentional, undermining the city's ability to sustain life.

Residents are facing skyrocketing prices for essentials, as merchants claim goods are being targeted during transport. The humanitarian situation is further complicated by the influx of displaced persons, with more than 700 temporary structures reported in camps surrounding El Obeid in just one month.

Calls for Action Amid Rising Tensions

Experts warn of an imminent ground offensive as RSF troops gather around El Obeid. Mohamed Badawi, director at the African Centre for Justice and Peace Studies, has called for a ceasefire and urged the international community to intervene. He cautioned that the ongoing conflict could lead to devastating consequences for the already vulnerable population.

As the conflict escalates, humanitarian workers like Ahlam express deep concern for the future, noting that nearly every essential service has been impacted. The fear of further violence looms large, with many considering fleeing the city despite the rising costs of transportation due to the attacks on fuel stations.