An airstrike in Tora, Sudan, killed at least 54 people, mostly women, as reported by aid groups. The military denied targeting civilians, while the attack highlighted the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan continues to worsen amid escalating violence.
On Tuesday, aid organizations reported that a military airstrike in Sudan caused the deaths of at least 54 individuals at a market in Tora, located in the western part of the country. The strike, which took place on Monday, ignited a significant blaze, as confirmed by Adam Rejal, a spokesperson for the General Coordination—a local organization assisting displaced individuals in Darfur.
Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah, representing the Sudanese military, asserted that civilians were not targeted, rejecting the claims as “incorrect” and stating that such allegations arise whenever military actions are taken against perceived hostile entities.
The devastating airstrike severely damaged a large segment of Tora’s weekly market, situated approximately 80 kilometers north of el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur Province. A local group, Support Darfur Victims, circulated graphic video evidence depicting burned buildings and charred remains at the site.
Casualty reports indicated that over half of the deceased were women, per the data shared by Rejal, who also noted that at least 23 individuals sustained injuries while seven remained unaccounted for. He condemned the airstrike as “a crime against humanity” and a gross violation of international humanitarian laws.
The city of el-Fasher is presently controlled by the Sudanese military, despite ongoing assaults from the rival paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This airstrike highlights the increasing violence that erupted in April 2023 amidst escalating tensions between these two militarized factions.
The ongoing conflict has devastated urban areas, especially the capital, leading to over 28,000 fatalities and displacing millions. Some individuals are resorting to eating grass amid the famine affecting certain regions. Death toll estimates significantly vary, suggesting an even larger number of casualties.
The hostilities have also been characterized by severe human rights abuses, including mass rapes and ethnic killings that may constitute war crimes, especially in the Darfur region, according to various UN and international human rights entities. Recently, the military has reported significant territorial gains against the RSF in Khartoum and beyond, reclaiming crucial government structures, including the Republican Palace.
In summary, the military airstrike in Sudan’s Tora village has resulted in significant civilian casualties, prompting calls for accountability under international law. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and the RSF continues to wreak havoc, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Notably, international organizations are closely monitoring the situation given its potential implications on human rights violations and the overall stability within the region.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
