ICRC Warns of Rising Civilian Toll from Aerial and Drone Attacks in Sudan

A recent surge in aerial attacks across Sudan, likely conducted using armed drones, has led to an increase in civilian casualties, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reported from Port Sudan.

According to the humanitarian organization, strikes have hit residential neighborhoods, markets, and shelters for displaced populations, reportedly resulting in hundreds of deaths. The organization warned that the escalating strikes threaten civilian protection and risk deepening the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country.

"The use of drones does not change the rules of war. Technology does not absolve those who use it of their obligations under international humanitarian law," said Lorenzo Caraffi, the ICRC’s head of delegation in Sudan.

The ICRC emphasized that under international humanitarian law, warring parties are obligated to distinguish between military targets and civilians, prohibit indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks, and take all feasible precautions to minimize harm to non-combatants.

To address the growing number of casualties, the ICRC has been providing hospitals across Sudan with medical supplies, specialist surgical teams, and other resources. The organization stated that facilities it supports recorded more than 2,700 weapon-wounded patients during the first half of 2026.

The ICRC called on all parties involved in the conflict to consider the humanitarian impact of deploying armed drones, particularly within populated areas.

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