Local security conflict

At least 21 civilians were killed and dozens injured on Tuesday in a drone strike, likely carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), targeting a vital water source in the Tina region of North Darfur state.
Over recent weeks, the RSF has escalated drone attacks on the town of Tina in the far northwest of North Darfur state. The strikes have killed and injured civilians while setting fire to markets and civilian vehicles on main roads, News.Az reports, citing Sudan Tribune. Tina is the last stronghold of the Sudanese army and the Joint Force of armed movements in the Darfur region. The town has faced repeated RSF ground assaults in recent months, but military and allied forces have maintained their positions and repelled the attacks.“A drone belonging to the RSF militia targeted the Bir Andour area in the Tina locality this morning, killing 21 civilians and injuring 30 others,” the North Darfur Popular Resistance said in a statement.The group noted that the targeted location serves as a critical water hub where local herders and residents gather. It described the attack as part of a recurring pattern targeting populated civilian areas and basic services in violation of international humanitarian law.The statement added that targeting drinking water sources relied upon by residents and pastoralists constitutes a crime that deepens civilian suffering, calling for urgent international action to investigate the attack and hold those responsible accountable.Meanwhile, ongoing clashes in the northwestern parts of North Darfur state have forced thousands of residents to flee into neighbouring Chad.Rights monitors and residents have accused the RSF of committing widespread abuses against members of the African Zaghawa ethnic group on a racial basis.