In a devastating escalation of Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict, simultaneous drone attacks have struck civilian targets in separate regions, resulting in significant casualties and international condemnation. A kindergarten in Kalogi, South Kordofan, was reportedly hit by multiple drone-fired missiles on Thursday, claiming at least 50 lives including 33 children according to medical organizations.
The Sudan Doctors’ Network and national army officials have attributed the Kalogi attack to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group. Eyewitness accounts describe secondary strikes targeting first responders and medical personnel who rushed to the scene, compounding the tragedy. The army-aligned foreign ministry confirmed the school sustained two separate missile impacts during the assault.
In a retaliatory accusation, the RSF claimed government forces executed a drone strike on Friday against the Adre border crossing in Darfur, a critical humanitarian corridor connecting Sudan with Chad. The paramilitary group asserted the attack targeted both a fuel depot and adjacent marketplace, causing civilian casualties and substantial damage to infrastructure essential for aid delivery.
The Sudan War Monitor, an independent conflict research organization, verified significant destruction at the Adre crossing site but could not independently confirm casualty figures from either incident due to communication blackouts and restricted access to conflict zones.
UNICEF representative Sheldon Yett issued a forceful condemnation stating, ‘Targeting educational facilities represents a horrific violation of children’s fundamental rights. Children must never bear the consequences of armed conflict.’ The UN agency demanded immediate cessation of attacks on civilian infrastructure and unimpeded humanitarian access to affected regions.
The strategic Kordofan region, comprising three states with nearly eight million residents, has emerged as a critical frontline in the widening conflict. Situated between the national capital Khartoum and the Darfur region, this area has witnessed intensified fighting as military forces advance toward Darfur.
Neither military faction responded immediately to requests for comment regarding the specific allegations. The conflict originated from a power struggle between formerly allied forces in April 2023, resulting in widespread humanitarian crisis across Sudan.