At least 35 people lost their lives when the Sudanese army launched a drone strike targeting a traditional court session in Ghara al-Zawiya village, located in northern Darfur, a local rights group reported on Sunday.
The Emergency Lawyers Group, which tracks civilian casualties in the conflict, stated the attack occurred in an area controlled by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The army has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.
The region of Darfur remains largely under RSF control amid a protracted civil war that has lasted over three years, causing tens of thousands of deaths and displacing millions.
Details of the Attack
- The court session was reportedly held outdoors under a tree and involved local community leaders.
- Among the casualties were four tribal elders and two RSF commanders, according to eyewitness accounts.
- Witnesses described two drones flying over the village before releasing more than four missiles.
Human Rights Concerns
The Emergency Lawyers Group condemned the drone strike as a serious violation of international humanitarian law, emphasizing that targeting civilian gatherings and infrastructure is unacceptable. They also highlighted the rising use of drones in attacks on civilian areas, which increases risks to the population.
The RSF itself has faced multiple accusations of war crimes, including drone strikes against civilians. A UN fact-finding mission previously described the RSF’s siege and assault on el-Fasher city as bearing "hallmarks of genocide," though the paramilitary group denies these allegations.
