Sudan airstrikes kill dozens in North Darfur

October 4, 2024 (AL-KUMA) – At least 59 people were killed and more than 200 wounded in airstrikes conducted by the Sudanese military on the town of al-Kuma in North Darfur on Friday, according to local activists.

The attack targeted the town’s main market on market day, resulting in significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction of property.

This escalation in aerial bombardment follows recent visits by high-ranking Sudanese officials to Russia, China, and Iran. The increased air force activity has drawn condemnation from political groups, armed movements, and human rights organizations demanding a no-fly zone over the region.

“The bombing targeted innocent civilians… resulting in a large number of civilian deaths and the complete destruction of the market and some homes,” said Abdel Rahman Mustafa, an activist in North Darfur. He urged the international community to intervene to prevent further bloodshed.

The Sudanese military maintains that its airstrikes target Rapid Support Forces (RSF) positions and has previously warned civilians to avoid RSF-controlled areas. However, last month, an airstrike mistakenly hit a Sudanese army base in al-Fasher, killing several soldiers.

The airstrikes on al-Kuma coincide with intensified fighting between the Sudanese army and the RSF in northern and northwestern areas of North Darfur. These clashes are an extension of the conflict that has engulfed al-Fasher, the state capital, since May.