Sudan Drone Warfare Intensifies as Dual Strikes on Civilian Markets and Transit Corridors Kill 28

At least 28 civilians killed as drone warfare escalates in Sudan, with strikes hitting a North Darfur market and a North Kordofan transit road.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 26, 2026, 7:21 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Asharq Al Awsat

Marketplace Devastation in North Darfur

A drone strike on a crowded market in the town of Saraf Omra resulted in the deaths of 22 individuals, including an infant, according to local healthcare providers. The strike reportedly targeted a parked fuel truck, triggering a massive fire that consumed a significant portion of the commercial area. Witnesses described a scene of chaos as the blaze spread through the market, which serves as a vital supply hub for the remote Darfur region. This incident underscores the increasing vulnerability of civilian infrastructure as aerial technology is deployed with greater frequency in densely populated trade zones.

Targeted Transit Ambush in North Kordofan

Approximately 800 kilometers to the east, a second drone operation targeted a civilian truck traveling along a major roadway in North Kordofan. Medical sources at a hospital in El-Rahad confirmed the arrival of six bodies, noting that several victims were charred beyond recognition in the ensuing fire. The vehicle was reportedly transporting passengers between the army-controlled municipalities of El-Rahad and Um Rawaba when it was intercepted. Local officials have attributed this specific strike to the Rapid Support Forces, emphasizing the persistent danger faced by civilians attempting to navigate the country’s internal road networks.

The Strategic Significance of Central High-Speed Arteries

The central east-west highway, which traverses the North Kordofan state capital of El-Obeid, has become a primary focal point for drone activity from both warring factions. This infrastructure is a critical link connecting the RSF strongholds in Darfur to the army-controlled eastern territories. Frequent aerial assaults on this corridor have effectively turned a primary civilian and commercial lifeline into a high-risk combat zone. By targeting transit vehicles, combatants are severely restricting the movement of essential goods and people, further isolating regions already struggling with supply shortages.