The United States has strongly condemned a recent drone assault by Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on critical infrastructure and civilian areas in Port Sudan.
In a press statement shared by the Department of State on African Affairs, US government called the act a “dangerous escalation” in the ongoing conflict.
“The United States condemns the recent drone attacks, reportedly by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), on critical infrastructure and other civilian targets in Port Sudan and throughout the country. These attacks represent a dangerous escalation in the Sudan conflict.”
“We also remain deeply alarmed by the deteriorating situation and reports of RSF violence against civilians and aid workers in and around El Fasher, North Darfur.”
“We continue to call for unhindered humanitarian access and the protection of civilians, including the safe passage of civilians fleeing violence. It is also imperative for external actors to refrain from arming the belligerents.”
The RSF launched a surprise drone attack on Sunday targeting the Osman Digna military airbase and surrounding civilian facilities in the strategic Red Sea city.
According to Sudanese military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Nabil Abdullah, the assault struck an ammunition warehouse within the airbase, igniting explosions.
Civilian infrastructure, including a cargo warehouse, was also hit.
Social media footage circulating online showed thick plumes of smoke billowing from the area, and Sudan’s civil aviation authority confirmed a temporary suspension of air traffic at Port Sudan’s airport.
This marks the first known RSF attack on Port Sudan, which has functioned as the government’s interim seat since the war between the army and the RSF erupted more than two years ago.
Though no casualties were reported, the strike signals an alarming expansion of the RSF’s operational reach.
Meanwhile, reports of intensified RSF violence against civilians and aid workers in and around El Fasher, North Darfur, have raised further alarm among international observers.
The U.S. renewed calls for the protection of civilians and emphasized the urgent need for unhindered humanitarian access.
Washington also urged external actors to halt the flow of arms to the warring parties, warning that continued interference could deepen the humanitarian crisis.
