A series of aerial attacks using drones shook Port Sudan for the third day running, heightening tensions in the Red Sea city and leading to a halt of all traffic at the nation’s sole functioning airport. The attacks came on Thursday, targeting a key army base, heightening fears of greater instability in a region already tense from internal conflict.
Only yesterday, the capital’s primary fuel storage facility was bombed, causing extensive fire and suspending essential supplies. The bombing, which is yet to be claimed by anyone, indicates escalating instability in the east of Sudan, hitherto a fairly stable area during the country’s wider civil upheaval.
Port Sudan has acted as a provisional administrative capital since the violence broke out in Khartoum last year. Its airport is the nation’s sole operating international entrance, and the recent disruption is thus especially worrying for humanitarian agencies, diplomats, and civilians trying to escape areas of conflict.
Security personnel have opened an investigation while airspace continues to be restricted. Amid growing civilian worries and increased military alertness, the recent drone attacks highlight the evolving tactics of fighting sides and the pressing necessity of regional de-escalation to avert additional humanitarian repercussions.
