Qatar condemns drone strike on UN food convoy in Sudan's North Kordofan

Qatar has issued a strong condemnation following a reported drone strike on a World Food Program (WFP) aid convoy in Sudan's North Kordofan state, labeling the attack a severe violation of international humanitarian principles. The Qatari Foreign Ministry emphasized the imperative of safeguarding relief workers and guaranteeing the uninterrupted delivery of essential supplies to vulnerable populations.

Call for Protection and Sustained Aid Access

In its statement on Saturday, Qatar underscored the urgent necessity of protecting humanitarian personnel operating in conflict zones and stressed the importance of maintaining reliable aid corridors. The ministry also reiterated its appeal for coordinated regional and international efforts to resolve the Sudanese conflict through peaceful dialogue, reaffirming Doha’s support for Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

Context of the Attack and Broader Conflict

The condemnation relates to an incident in which Sudanese government authorities accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of executing a drone strike against a WFP convoy, resulting in casualties and the destruction of vital supplies destined for displaced civilians. This event is part of the wider violent struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, which erupted in April 2023 and has since caused thousands of deaths and displaced millions across the country.

Control Dynamics Within Sudan

The RSF currently holds control over most of the five states constituting the Darfur region in western Sudan, with the exception of certain areas in North Darfur. The national army maintains authority over the majority of the remaining 13 states, including the capital, Khartoum. The persistent conflict continues to severely impede humanitarian operations and exacerbate one of the world's most pressing displacement crises.