More than 100 killed in brutal airstrike on market in Sudan

In Sudan, a brutal escalation in conflict has resulted in a devastating airstrike that killed over 100 individuals during a busy market day in the town of Kabkabiya, North Darfur. This airstrike, conducted by the Sudanese military on December 9, 2024, injured hundreds, including numerous women and children. The market day is a significant local event when residents from nearby villages gather, which underscored the tragedy of this attack. Eyewitness reports and statements from the Emergency Lawyers group condemned the airstrike, asserting that it targeted civilians in a blatant disregard for human life. The military, however, denied responsibility, claiming the right to target areas utilized by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for military operations, calling the accusations fabricated lies designed to undermine its legitimacy. Ongoing violence in Sudan, fueled by a power struggle between the army and the RSF, has persisted for 20 months, inflicting significant suffering on the civilian population. This conflict has already resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and has displaced millions, pushing the country towards a humanitarian crisis of immense proportions. Humanitarian organizations note that nearly half of Sudan's population, approximately 26 million people, face starvation due to the rampant violence and disruption of agricultural and aid operations. The reports of bombings have become commonplace, with human rights advocates warning that both warring factions are committing atrocities against civilians, including indiscriminate killing and destruction of property. In addition to the horrific market bombing, various other assaults have intensified across Sudan. For instance, on December 10, an artillery shell released by the RSF hit a bus in Omdurman, resulting in at least 65 fatalities according to local officials. This incident was described as a massacre by the local governor, highlighting the pervasive cycle of violence. Furthermore, the RSF’s artillery targeting of a displacement camp in North Darfur claimed additional lives. The relentless attacks on crowded civilian areas underscore the complicity of both factions in exacerbating the suffering of the Sudanese people. This ongoing conflict not only showcases the dire military engagements between the army and RSF but also emphasizes the dire humanitarian consequences that result from protracted infighting. With the healthcare infrastructure deteriorating and up to 80% of medical facilities being either shuttered or barely operational, the plight of innocents continues to worsen. The unfolding crisis has prompted a significant exodus of citizens fleeing across borders, particularly into South Sudan, witnessing almost 10,000 individuals crossing the border daily. The United Nations has voiced concerns about this alarming trend and called for immediate action to protect civilians caught in the crossfire of an unrelenting conflict.