Regulation

Drone Attacks on Khartoum

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have targeted Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, and its main airport with drones for a fourth consecutive day. This occurs as the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) are attempting to resume air traffic after regaining control of the city several months ago.

Residents near Khartoum International Airport reported hearing drones and surface-to-air missiles in the early hours of Friday, followed by loud explosions.

The extent of the damage to the airport remains unclear. The attacks coincide with attempts to reopen the airport, which was scheduled to become operational after being closed due to ongoing conflict.

A plane operated by Badr Airlines managed to land on Wednesday, but further operations have been postponed due to security concerns related to the attacks.

Impact on Khartoum Rebuilding Efforts

The conflict, which began in April 2023, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with tens of thousands killed and about 12 million displaced. The humanitarian crisis remains severe, with 30 million individuals in need of assistance.

The Sudanese military regained control of the capital in March, and residents have been returning to their homes to find them damaged. The local currency’s instability has exacerbated reconstruction challenges, with the Sudanese pound dropping significantly in value since the conflict’s onset.

Construction materials are scarce, further hindering rebuilding efforts. The government’s reconstruction focus has been on state institutions, leaving residents to independently manage their rebuilding endeavors.

Authorities are currently assessing the damage to residential areas, but financial and material constraints continue to impede progress.