19 Civilians Killed in El Obeid Drone Attacks
On June 15, 2026, the Committee for Justice (CFJ) reported that at least 19 civilians were killed and several others injured following a series of drone attacks targeting the city of El Obeid in North Kordofan State on June 11 and 12.
According to CFJ’s documentation, one of the drones struck the “Daleel” cemetery in El Obeid during a funeral for victims of a prior bombardment, resulting in the deaths of four mourners and injuries to seven others. The shelling resumed the following morning, targeting a residential home in the Airport neighborhood, leading to additional civilian casualties.
Among those killed were Moatamen Al‑Daw (9 years old), Mawadda Al‑Tigani Fadil, her sister Ikhlas Al‑Tigani Fadil, who was pregnant, and their nephew, the child Moatamen Al‑Daw. Ahmed Issa Saeed and his two sons, Motasem Ahmed Issa Saeed and Al‑Nour Ahmed Issa Saeed, were also killed, along with other civilians.
The attacks targeted densely populated civilian areas and sites where civilians gather, including a funeral site, resulting in a rising number of civilian casualties and an expansion of humanitarian losses.
The Committee for Justice affirmed that targeting civilians and civilian objects—including residential homes and funeral sites—constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law and requires independent and transparent investigations to identify those responsible and ensure accountability.
CFJ also reiterated its call on all parties to the conflict to adhere to the rules of international humanitarian law, to take all necessary measures to protect civilians and spare them from the effects of military operations, and to refrain from any attacks that may endanger their lives and safety.
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges in protecting civilians amid the conflict in Sudan. The use of drone attacks in populated areas raises significant legal and ethical concerns, emphasizing the need for adherence to international humanitarian law and the protection of non-combatants.
Citizens in El Obeid and surrounding areas have expressed fear and outrage over the attacks, calling for immediate measures to ensure their safety and for those responsible to be held accountable. The international community has also condemned the attacks, urging all parties to the conflict to respect human rights and prioritize the protection of civilians.
In conclusion, the drone attacks in El Obeid resulting in civilian casualties underscore the urgent need for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law in Sudan. Ensuring the protection of civilians and holding perpetrators accountable are critical steps toward achieving peace and stability in the region.
