Sudan: Drone Strike on Darfur Market Kills Over 100
The Facts
- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) launched a drone strike on the crowded Tanqonj market in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur, on Monday evening, killing over 100 people, according to a statement from the human rights group Emergency Lawyers.
- Emergency Lawyers reported that 102 civilians were killed and a further 113 were injured in the blast, including women and children. Eyewitnesses told the Associated Press that hundreds of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) fighters had gathered at the market when the drone struck around 8 p.m. local time.
- In particular, the group said the attack breached the principles of distinction and proportionality and called for an "independent and transparent" investigation into the incident, accountability for those responsible and access to medical care for the wounded.
%2520International.png&w=64&q=75 "Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) International"){kind=small}
Sources Split
LEFT
CENTER
RIGHT
+1
+1
+1
ESTAB
CRIT
CENTER
PRO
ESTAB
The Spin
Progressive narrative
The strike on Tanqonj Market was utterly indefensible. No military rationale can ever justify the wanton murder of innocent civilians, especially at a market when hunger is already stalking Darfur. However, it is just one part of a wider pattern of reckless drone attacks by both the SAF and RSF in this conflict, demonstrating their flippant disregard for civilian life.
Pro-SAF narrative
The SAF operates by the highest possible standards. Bound by international humanitarian law and trained in the rules of engagement, it does not go targeting civilians. Rather, the RSF puts those people at risk by turning everyday facilities and places into military targets. Blaming the SAF ignores those who really threaten civilian life.
Pro-RSF narrative
This latest shameful episode by the SAF epitomises its ruthless treatment of civilians in this war. Throughout the conflict, the Khartoum regime has mercilessly targeted non-combatants and civilian infrastructure in clear violation of international law. Unless the SAF is held to account by the international community, these atrocities will continue unabated.
