The Sudanese army reported intercepting several drones launched by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeting Atbara International Airport in River Nile state. Meanwhile, heavy fighting continues to escalate across Sudan, including deadly shelling in Omdurman and intensified clashes in North Darfur.
The drones were intercepted near Al-Fadlab town around 4:45 a.m., with anti-aircraft defenses successfully neutralizing them before reaching Atbara Airport. The River Nile state security committee labeled the incident a “failed attempt” by the RSF, assuring the public that the airport remains secure.
This is the second drone attack targeting Atbara since the conflict erupted in April. Previously, an April drone strike killed 15 people at a gathering of a pro-army militia. Atbara Airport, which recently underwent expansion for domestic and international flights, has become a strategic target amid the ongoing conflict.
Elsewhere, shelling in Omdurman during evening prayers at a mosque killed five civilians, including children, and injured others. Sudanese army officials accused the RSF of carrying out the attack. Intense exchanges of artillery fire were also reported across Khartoum, Omdurman, and Bahri, impacting residential areas.
In El Fasher, North Darfur’s capital, clashes between the army and RSF worsened overnight, with artillery fire striking civilian neighborhoods and army airstrikes targeting RSF positions. Residents fear further escalation as the RSF intensifies efforts to gain control of the city, a key government stronghold.
The RSF’s increasing use of drones has broadened the scope of the conflict, with attacks on army bases in River Nile state and government buildings in Ad-Damir this year.
Sudan’s civil war has plunged the country into a humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and leaving many without essential resources. As violence continues to spread, efforts for a peaceful resolution remain elusive.
