Sudan's air force has carried out bombings in which at least 1,700 civilians have died in attacks on residential neighborhoods, markets, schools, and camps for displaced people, according to an investigation into air raids in the country's civil war.
The Sudan Witness Project reports that it has compiled the largest known dataset of military airstrikes in the conflict, which began in April 2023. The analysis indicates that the air force has used unguided bombs in populated areas.
The data focuses on attacks by warplanes, only operable by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). The rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) does not have aircraft and employs drone strikes, which were excluded from the research.
According to the report, 135 airstrikes impacted residential areas, while 35 struck busy markets, resulting in significant civilian casualties and injury. The effects of these bombings have extended beyond loss of life, disrupting economic stability and exacerbating humanitarian crises.
Mark Snoeck, who led the project, emphasizes the importance of holding both the SAF and the RSF accountable for their actions amidst these violations.
Despite international condemnation, the ongoing conflict shows no signs of resolution, raising the stakes for affected civilians in the region.
