Besieged Sudanese city faces relentless drone strikes and risk of mass atrocities, U.N. warns
The United Nations has warned that El Obeid, a strategically important city in central Sudan, faces a growing risk of mass atrocities as relentless drone strikes and a paramilitary advance place civilians in increasing danger. The warning matters because it raises fears that violence similar to the reported mass killings in El Fasher could be repeated, while essential services and humanitarian access deteriorate.
The UN human rights office recorded 15 drone strikes in and around El Obeid between 6 and 28 June, killing at least 45 civilians and injuring 41. Residents have endured siege-like conditions for about 18 months, including shortages of clean water, food and fuel, as the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces fight for control of the surrounding area. The UN has urged international leaders to act quickly to protect civilians and prevent further violations.
In short
- UN warns El Obeid faces imminent risk of mass atrocities.
- Drone strikes killed at least 45 civilians in June.
- Water, food and fuel shortages are worsening civilian suffering.
Explained simply
Sudan has been at war since April 2023, when fighting broke out between the Sudanese army, led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary force led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. The conflict has spread across the country, displacing millions of people and disrupting food, water and medical services.
El Obeid is a key city in central Sudan, and control of it and the surrounding routes matters to both sides. The fighting has also put civilians in other cities at risk; reports of mass killings in El Fasher, in the west, have raised concerns about similar violence elsewhere.
The United Nations monitors civilian harm and calls on the parties to protect civilians and allow aid to reach them. Its warnings matter because prolonged fighting and shortages can make it harder for people to leave danger or obtain basic supplies.