Drone Strikes Resume Over Khartoum Amidst Ongoing Conflict in Sudan
Recent Attacks on Khartoum
On October 24, 2025, Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, experienced yet another wave of turmoil as drone strikes targeted the city and its main airport. This marked the fourth consecutive attack by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a group that has been embroiled in a fierce struggle against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) since the beginning of this prolonged conflict in April 2023. The implications of these drone strikes resonate deeply, especially following the recent reopening of Khartoum International Airport.
A Flicker of Hope
Just two days prior to the latest assault, Khartoum celebrated a significant milestone: the arrival of the first passenger flight in two years. Badr Airlines made history by landing its aircraft from Port Sudan, an event that stirred emotions and excitement among the dwindling population who have endured immense hardship. The Sudanese Civil Aviation Authority announced the resumption of limited domestic flights, declaring the airport ready for operations after thorough technical assessments. This moment was more than just a flight; it symbolized a potential return to normalcy in a city ravaged by war.
Rising Tensions
However, the jubilance of this moment was quickly overshadowed by the RSF’s relentless assault. Eyewitness accounts reported the chilling sound of drones and explosions piercing the early morning stillness. The attacks not only disrupted the fragile peace that had settled over the city but also forced many residents—who had already been living in despair—to confront the grim reality of their situation once again. The hopes that blossomed with the reopening of the airport faded almost as swiftly as they had emerged.
The Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing conflict between the RSF and SAF has created one of the world’s most devastating humanitarian crises. Over 12 million people have been displaced due to the violence, and nearly four million children are affected by severe malnutrition. Basic services have crumbled, and medical infrastructure is nearly non-existent in many areas struck by the fighting. Aid agencies tirelessly warn of impending famine and the outbreak of disease in regions cut off from essential supplies and support.
The Global Response
International attention continues to focus on Sudan, as the urgency of the situation grows more dire. The United Nations and various NGOs are scrambling to provide relief, yet access remains highly restricted in many conflict zones. The fear of famine looms large, compounded by the challenges faced by those trying to help. The striking contrast between the brief moments of hope, such as the reestablishment of air travel, and the stark reality of ongoing violence underscores the complex situation in Sudan.
The Way Forward
As the conflict rages on, the citizens of Khartoum and across Sudan remain in limbo, caught between flashes of hope and enduring despair. While the RSF continues its assaults, the international community grapples with how to respond effectively to this tragic unfolding of events. The path to peace seems fraught with challenges, and the resilience of the Sudanese people is tested daily.
With each passing day, the situation in Sudan becomes increasingly precarious, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive resolution to the crisis and a more stable environment for the people who call this war-torn country home.