UN raises alarm over drone strikes in Sudan as envoy pushes political talks

August 4, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The United Nations warned on Monday of rising risks to civilians from drone strikes in Sudan, even as its personal envoy continued diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs expressed deep concern over deadly drone attacks, including a strike in the Ghurra Zawia area of Kabkabiya locality, North Darfur, on August 2, 2026, killing at least 37 people.

Renewed drone strikes in recent days near El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state, have threatened civilians, vital infrastructure and emergency aid operations.

Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, said aid agencies are working to expand life-saving relief around El Obeid. He urged warring factions to de-escalate, protect non-combatants and guarantee safe humanitarian access.

The UN appeal for Sudan remains underfunded, with $1.2 billion received out of $2.9 billion required for this year.

Meanwhile, UN Personal Envoy Pekka Haavisto spoke with Sudanese Foreign Minister Muhieddine Salem to discuss preparations for an upcoming visit to Khartoum and arrangements for Sudanese students in Chad to sit national examinations.

Haavisto also held discussions with Rapid Support Forces commander General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, to explore practical steps toward de-escalation.

The UN envoy will travel to Türkiye this week for talks with Turkish authorities and Sudanese political stakeholders, including youth and women representatives.

The regional diplomatic initiative, involving the UN, African Union, IGAD, Arab League and European Union, follows preliminary talks held in Addis Ababa in June aimed at advancing a Sudanese-led political resolution.