On October 11th, 2025, the Sudanese People’s Liberation Army/North Alhelo and Rapid Support Forces initiated multiple attacks across several regions in South Kordofan. Drone strikes and shelling in Dillinj resulted in the death of an eight-month-old child and injuries to five others; a local female aid volunteer was also wounded during the attack on October 16th. In Umbrumebtia, a woman lost her life and two others were injured when RSF forces opened fire on individuals traveling by Rekshewa toward the Abu Karashola area. Notably, RSF drones targeted the 10th Division base in Abujebeiha for the first time during this conflict, thereby expanding hostilities into the eastern parts of South Kordofan state.
The recent increase in fighting in South Kordofan was anticipated with the beginning of the dry season. Additional clashes are occurring on roads connecting South Kordofan to North Kordofan. Growing violence and attacks on civilians along these vital routes are limiting access to life-saving supplies from outside the state. The killing of civilians and the widespread presence of armed men on various roads are preventing people from safely evacuating areas suffering from food shortages, such as Kadugli and Dillinj.
The recent attacks this month represent the first deployment of drones in the ongoing conflict within western areas of South Kordofan. This development signifies a new phase in hostilities, underscoring the heightened need to protect civilians from indiscriminate drone strikes, primarily operated by the RSF. Previously, drones had been used by the SAF in eastern regions of South Kordofan, targeted civilians in these areas.
Meanwhile, accessing food supplies in the city of Dillinj is becoming more difficult and dangerous. The local market’s capacity to provide food is diminishing every day, raising concerns about growing food insecurity as fighting intensifies and road closures persist. The city is also suffering from shortages of medical supplies and personnel, further restricting access to healthcare amid escalating violence.
International community must take action now to protect civilians in South Kordofan and put pressure on the fighting parties to deescalate the fighting in the region. Local aid workers must be protected and international aid groups must gain urgent access to area. routes must be urgently opened to safely evacuate civilians who wish to leave areas of fighting.
Urgent Steps Needed to Protect Civilians and Ensure Aid Access
The international community must urgently intervene to safeguard civilians in South Kordofan. Immediate diplomatic and humanitarian action is required to pressure all parties involved in the conflict to deescalate hostilities and prioritize the protection of non-combatants. Without prompt intervention, the ongoing fighting will continue to endanger lives and worsen the humanitarian crisis.
It is essential that local aid workers are provided with robust protection measures to safely carry out their critical roles on the ground. At the same time, international aid organizations must be granted immediate and unobstructed access to affected areas in South Kordofan. This access is vital for delivering life-saving supplies and medical assistance to those in need.
Additionally, secure routes must be rapidly established and maintained to allow for the safe evacuation of civilians who wish to leave zones of active conflict. Opening these corridors is a necessary step to prevent further loss of life and to enable vulnerable populations, including women and children, to reach safety.
