On Sunday, March 8, 2026, East Darfur State witnessed a series of airstrikes targeting civilian-populated areas, resulting in significant casualties and material losses. These events occur within the context of the ongoing armed conflict that erupted on April 15, 2023, and constitute a violation of international humanitarian law.
At approximately 10:00 AM on Sunday, March 8, an airstrike using an Akanji drone targeted a fuel depot in the Al-Nadhir neighborhood, near the main market in Al-Daein. According to field sources from the Sudan Rights Watch Network in the state and eyewitnesses, two missiles were launched from the same drone. The first missile caused a fire, and approximately half an hour later, after civilians had gathered to inspect the site or offer assistance, the second missile was launched.
The airstrike resulted in the deaths of six civilians and injuries to five others. It also caused extensive damage to property and infrastructure surrounding the depot and the market. Eyewitnesses confirmed that the second attack occurred after civilians had gathered, increasing the likelihood of a deliberate targeting of civilians.
Also on the same day, at 1:30 PM, a march in the Dar al-Salama area of Abu Karnka locality was targeted, according to a local source who spoke to the network’s field sources in the state. The attack has so far resulted in three deaths, with the risk to civilians in the area continuing. Preliminary information on casualties and material damage is unavailable, but the use of drones in populated areas increases the potential for further casualties.
Attacks targeting civilians constitute a flagrant violation of the principle of distinction between civilians and combatants, as enshrined in the four Geneva Conventions and their First Additional Protocol. The launch of the second missile after civilians had gathered may constitute a war crime under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. At the national level, these operations violate the provisions of the law on the protection of civilians in areas of internal conflict, particularly those prohibiting attacks on civilians and vital civilian infrastructure.
Recommendations:
In light of these events, the Sudan Rights Watch Network recommends the following:
- Protection of Civilians: Impose no-fly zones over cities and densely populated areas, along with strict regulations governing the use of drones.
- Investigation and Accountability: Establish a national and international commission of inquiry to document violations and hold those responsible for targeting civilians accountable.
- Mitigation of Humanitarian Harm: Provide urgent support to victims, including medical care and material relief for those affected.
- Future Prevention Mechanisms: Adopt strict protocols for military operations, including risk assessments for civilians before targeting any facility, and train forces to adhere to international humanitarian law.
End
Sudan Rights Watch Network
March 8, 2026