Human rights organizations and witnesses reported dozens of civilians killed in Khartoum Bahri, Sudan, after incendiary bombs were allegedly dropped by drones operated by General al-Burhan’s army (SAF). The drones are believed to be Iranian-made.
Residents from the neighborhoods of Mazad, Safia, and Kafouri described the attacks as devastating, with drones launching highly flammable bombs that destroyed homes and killed families. Videos and photos shared on social media depicted widespread destruction and charred ruins.
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) accused the SAF of deploying Iranian-made drones, including the Shahed 129, a model reportedly used in recent strikes. The RSF claims these weapons were supplied directly by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps to a pro-SAF militia known as Al-Bara bin Malik Brigades.
The indiscriminate strikes occurred in recent days leading up to December 26, 2024, according to witness accounts and statements from rights organizations.
Allegations of Iranian Involvement
In a statement, the RSF alleged that the Iranian-backed militia is part of a broader support network facilitated by Sudan’s Islamic movement. “The continued use of Iranian drones and advanced weaponry underscores the deepening ties between the Sudanese army and Tehran,” the RSF added, calling for international condemnation of such interventions.
The allegations come amid growing concerns over Sudan’s alignment with Iran, with analysts warning that this could destabilize the region further and impact the security of the Red Sea.
Humanitarian Outcry
Emergency Lawyers, a Sudanese rights group, confirmed that indiscriminate airstrikes in Khartoum Bahri resulted in civilian casualties, including four women and a young man. “These attacks represent a blatant violation of international humanitarian law,” the group said in a statement, urging immediate measures to protect civilians and allow humanitarian access to conflict zones.
International and Regional Implications
The purported Iranian involvement in Sudan’s civil war has sparked debates about Tehran’s increasing influence in Africa. Military analysts suggest that Iran’s support for SAF might be part of a broader strategy to secure a foothold in the Red Sea and counter Western and Gulf states’ presence in the region.
As the conflict in Sudan escalates, civilians continue to bear the brunt of the violence, with rights groups calling for urgent international intervention to halt the bloodshed and address the growing humanitarian crisis.
