Sudan war: Drone attacks damage key aid routes

Sudan Conflict: Drone Strikes Disrupt Critical Aid Pathways

Sudan war - The United Nations has raised concerns over the intensifying assaults on bridges, roads, and civilian infrastructure in Sudan, which are threatening access to humanitarian aid and endangering local populations. This comes as explosions targeted the Ardamata bridge in West Darfur, a key crossing point between El Geneina and the border with Chad, during the night. The attack adds to the ongoing struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which have been locked in conflict since April 2023.

Key Bridges Under Threat

In South Kordofan state, two major bridges on the Kadugli-Dilling route were reportedly damaged over the weekend, further complicating movement within the region. These strikes highlight the growing vulnerability of critical transport links as the rainy season approaches, according to UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq, who noted the disruption during a press briefing in New York.

"Humanitarian partners warn there will be no viable alternative routes once seasonal rains intensify," Mr. Haq stated.

Meanwhile, the Geneina–Zalingei road, which connects West and Central Darfur, has temporarily reopened after being closed for a day due to security threats and rising tensions between communities. Despite this, access remains tenuous, with ongoing risks to aid delivery and civilian mobility.

Drone Activity Expands

Drone strikes are also impacting various regions across Sudan, where over 30 million people depend on humanitarian support. A drone was reportedly downed in Omdurman, Khartoum state, on Tuesday, while multiple attacks were reported in Dilling the prior day. These incidents underscore the increasing use of aerial warfare in the conflict.

UN officials have urged all parties to prioritize the safety of civilians and infrastructure, ensuring unimpeded access to aid. During a Security Council briefing, Martha Pobee, the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, highlighted the broader regional consequences of the war, emphasizing its fourth year of escalation.

"With the conflict in Sudan in its fourth year, its direct impact on Chad cannot be overemphasized," Ms. Pobee told ambassadors.

The influx of nearly a million Sudanese refugees into Chad, alongside 300,000 returning Chadians, has strained local resources. Ms. Pobee warned that repeated incursions across the border and drone strikes on Chadian military sites risk expanding the crisis into neighboring countries.

Health System Strains in Chad

Chad’s fragile healthcare networks are under additional pressure due to the refugee surge, as noted by the World Health Organization (WHO). The agency continues collaborating with authorities and international partners to bolster emergency responses, support frontline staff, and enhance access to essential medical care.

"From emergency medical assistance to mental health and psychosocial care, solidarity and coordinated action remain critical," the WHO tweeted.