UN expresses concerns over drone attacks in Sudan

January 22, 2025 (NEW YORK) – The United Nations has expressed deep concerns over reports  of drone attacks and its impact on civilians and critical civilian infrastructure in various parts of Sudan.

The deputy spokesperson of the Secretary General, Farhan Haq said an attack targeting the um Dabakir power station occurred around Kosti, south of Khartoum while another incident on a power station in Northern State disrupted electricity and water supplies to the capital Dongola and the surrounding areas.

“Attacks were also reported over the weekend. This included an attack on a hydroelectric facility at the Girba Dam in Kassala state on January 18th, which knocked out power to hospitals and healthcare facilities, as well as drone attacks that same day on power stations in Gedaref and Sennar states,” he explained.

According to the UN, the warring parties have a clear obligation not to attack objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population as per international humanitarian law,

“They must also take all feasible precautions to avoid and minimize incidental civilian harm,” said Haq.

The UN humanitarian affairs (OCHA) also reported attacks on the Merowe Dam, which is the largest dam in Sudan, severely disrupted water and electricity in Khartoum, Northern and River Nile states.

It warned that water and power cuts could deprive people of access to critical health services and safe water supplies.

(ST)