Horrific Air Strike in Darfur Market Leaves Over 100 Dead in Sudan Conflict
Sudan’s military launched an air strike on a Darfur marketplace, reportedly killing over 100 people during peak shopping hours. Emergency Lawyers condemned the attack, citing violations of international law. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF has intensified, prompting Human Rights Watch to call for protection efforts for civilians amid ongoing atrocities and displacement.
The recent air strike conducted by Sudan’s military on a marketplace in Kabkabiya, Darfur, has resulted in an estimated 100 casualties, with officials from the Emergency Lawyers group labeling the incident a “horrific massacre.” This attack occurred on a market day when residents traveled from nearby villages to shop. Amid escalating violence between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), both parties deny committing war crimes despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting over 11 million individuals who have been displaced since the conflict began.”Emergency Lawyers condemned the air strike, stating it represents a clear breach of international law, while noting that hundreds were also injured in the bombing. The RSF has faced criticism for its indiscriminate shelling, specifically an attack that killed 14 people aboard a bus. A separate air strike at a petrol station controlled by the RSF claimed 28 additional lives, raising alarms about civilian safety in the conflict.
Human Rights Watch has also condemned the RSF and allied factions for utilizing civilian infrastructure for military operations and has urged international organizations to intervene and protect civilians. The organization has reported a range of abuses, including killings, rapes, and abductions. The urgent need for international action was emphasized by HRW researcher Jean-Baptiste Gallopin, who indicated that these findings highlight the continuing pattern of atrocities throughout Sudan, particularly in South Kordofan. U.S. officials estimated that the conflict could have led to the deaths of up to 150,000 individuals.
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, particularly in the Darfur region, stems from a power struggle between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group. This struggle has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, with millions suffering from displacement and violence. The air strikes and subsequent attacks on markets and civilian areas illustrate the catastrophic impact on non-combatants, as international groups call for accountability and protection for affected populations.
The air strike in Kabkabiya underscores the severe implications of the conflict in Sudan, highlighting the civilian toll amidst political warfare. With international human rights organizations and advocacy groups documenting continuous abuses, the situation demands urgent intervention from global powers to shield vulnerable populations. As the violence escalates, calls for accountability and support for displaced communities remain critical in addressing the humanitarian crisis emanating from this prolonged conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com