UN Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Sudan as Drone Attacks Intensify
The United Nations has renewed its call for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, warning that escalating drone attacks, attacks on civilians and the destruction of healthcare facilities are worsening one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk told the UN Human Rights Council that civilians in several parts of Sudan face an imminent risk of further attacks. He urged the warring parties to end the fighting, called for an end to foreign involvement and appealed for a return to inclusive civilian rule.
The warning follows a sharp increase in the use of drones by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). A recent UN investigation found that more than 1,000 people were killed in drone attacks during the first half of 2026, with both sides accused of carrying out attacks that struck civilian areas and infrastructure.
The UN has also raised concerns about the growing involvement of foreign actors in the conflict, including the supply of drones, weapons and military expertise. Investigators warned that such external support is helping prolong the war and could contribute to further violations of international humanitarian law.
Healthcare has been particularly affected. Hospitals and other medical facilities have repeatedly come under attack, leaving already overstretched health services struggling to treat civilians caught in the fighting. Médecins Sans Frontières has documented attacks affecting medical facilities and warned that the destruction of healthcare infrastructure is depriving communities of essential services.
The conflict, which began in April 2023 following a power struggle between the SAF and RSF, has displaced more than six million people within Sudan, while another 4.5 million have fled across its borders, according to the latest UN figures.
The UN is now urging the international community to increase pressure on the warring parties and halt the flow of weapons that are being used against civilians.
