The International Federation for Rights and Development (IFRD) strongly condemns the reported drone airstrike that struck a local market in Nyala, South Darfur, on 8 March 2026, which resulted in the deaths of at least 11 civilians and left around 20 others injured.
According to field reports, the attack targeted a busy civilian marketplace in Nyala and was reportedly carried out by the Sudanese Armed Forces. Civilians present at the market were among the primary victims. Medical teams from the Ministry of Health transported the wounded to Nyala Teaching Hospital, where emergency care was provided with support and medical equipment supplied by Doctors Without Borders (MSF).
Markets are civilian spaces and are protected under international humanitarian law. Attacks that strike civilian areas, whether intentional or indiscriminate, raise serious concerns regarding compliance with the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution under the Geneva Conventions.
This incident comes amid an alarming escalation in the use of drone warfare across Sudan. The increasing deployment of drones by parties to the conflict is contributing to a growing toll on civilians and deepening the humanitarian crisis across the country.
IFRD calls on all parties to the conflict in Sudan to immediately cease attacks that place civilians at risk and to strictly adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian law. The protection of civilians, medical personnel, and humanitarian infrastructure must remain a fundamental priority.
IFRD also calls for independent and transparent investigations into attacks affecting civilian populations in Sudan to ensure accountability and prevent further violations.
The continued normalization of civilian harm in Sudan’s conflict is unacceptable. The lives of ordinary Sudanese citizens must not be treated as collateral damage in this war
