Local activists report Sudanese military airstrikes hit the village of al-Kuma in North Darfur on Friday, killing at least 59 and injuring over 200. The attack, targeting a market on its busiest day, caused severe property damage and high civilian casualties.
This escalation follows recent diplomatic visits by Sudanese officials to China, Iran, and Russia. Human rights groups have condemned the air raids, demanding a no-fly zone.
North Darfur activist Abdel Rahman Mustafa said, “The bombing targeted innocent civilians, resulting in widespread deaths and market destruction.” He urged global intervention to prevent further tragedies.
The Sudanese military claims the strikes target Rapid Support Forces (RSF) positions, warning civilians to avoid RSF areas. However, an airstrike mistakenly hit an army base in al-Fasher last month, killing seven soldiers.
Hostilities between RSF and the Sudanese army continue to intensify, particularly in northern North Darfur, with ongoing battles around al-Kuma.