Escalation of Violence in Dilling
On January 24, 2026, the Sudan Doctors Network reported that a drone strike in the city of Dilling, located in South Kordofan state, resulted in the death of a man and a woman, with several others injured. This incident highlights the ongoing violence and instability in the region.
Dilling has frequently been targeted by artillery and drone attacks, leading to the loss of hundreds of civilian lives and the destruction of critical health facilities. Despite these challenges, many residents have been unable to flee due to the lack of secure escape routes, resulting in widespread displacement.
The Sudan Doctors Network stated that a suicide drone, attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), struck the Fath al-Rahman neighborhood in Dilling. The attack caused significant casualties and damage.
The network described the attack as a deliberate assault on residential areas and civilian infrastructure, emphasizing a clear disregard for international calls to protect civilians. They held the RSF and SPLM-N, led by Abdel Aziz al-Hilu, accountable for the incident. The network condemned the continued targeting of unarmed civilians and the use of suicide drones in populated areas, calling it a violation of international humanitarian law and principles of civilian protection.
Siege and Humanitarian Crisis
The RSF and SPLM-N have imposed a siege on Dilling and Kadugli, blocking the flow of essential food and medical supplies to the civilian population. This has led to severe famine conditions in Kadugli, while Dilling faces similar challenges.
The Sudan Doctors Network urged the international community to exert pressure on the RSF and SPLM-N to lift the siege on Dilling, halt attacks on civilians, ensure unhindered access to humanitarian aid, and hold those responsible for violations accountable.
Military Developments
In a related development, the RSF announced that it had shot down a Turkish-made Bayraktar drone in the al-Farshaya area of South Kordofan state. This incident underscores the increasing use of aerial technology in the conflict.
The RSF and SPLM-N are vying for control over Kadugli and Dilling, launching continuous air strikes alongside ground battles in the surrounding regions. This escalation of hostilities has further complicated the already dire humanitarian situation in the area.
Ongoing Challenges
The situation in Dilling remains volatile, with frequent attacks and limited access to basic necessities. The continued use of drones and other military technologies has exacerbated the suffering of the civilian population.
As the conflict persists, the need for international intervention and support becomes increasingly urgent. The Sudan Doctors Network continues to monitor the situation and advocate for the protection of civilians and the restoration of peace in the region.
Impact on Civilians
The impact of the conflict on civilians is profound, with many families displaced and struggling to survive. The destruction of health facilities has left the population without access to essential medical care, compounding the crisis.
The international community must take decisive action to address the humanitarian emergency in Dilling and ensure that the rights and safety of civilians are protected. This includes providing aid, supporting local organizations, and holding perpetrators of violence accountable.
Conclusion
The ongoing violence in Dilling reflects the broader challenges facing Sudan. As the conflict intensifies, the need for a coordinated response from the international community becomes more critical than ever. Only through sustained efforts can the situation be improved and the suffering of the people in Dilling be alleviated.