Sudan’s Port Sudan Under Attack in Civil War
Port Sudan, the primary port and de facto capital of Sudan, faced a new wave of attacks in the ongoing civil war. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a series of attacks targeting key parts of the port, marking the first direct assault on Port Sudan in the conflict.
Reports of a loud explosion early Tuesday morning in the port area were followed by images of large plumes of smoke, indicating significant damage. The attacks, believed to have been carried out by drones, resulted in fires at the fuel storage area and container port, with several ships docked in the port.
The city’s commercial airport and an army base were also reportedly targeted in the coordinated attacks. Civilian teams worked to control the fires, and while marine activities resumed later in the day, casualties and deaths from the assault remain unclear.
Port Sudan plays a crucial role as a gateway for humanitarian aid into the country, which is already facing widespread starvation. The port handles a significant amount of cargo, including dry bulk and nearly one million containers annually. It also serves as a refuge for the government and army following the loss of Khartoum and eastern territories to RSF forces.
The recent escalation began with a drone attack on a military base outside the city on Sunday, followed by strikes on the main fuel storage depot south of Port Sudan on Monday. The United Nations has expressed concern over the impact of these attacks on humanitarian efforts, as millions of displaced people in Sudan rely on aid passing through Port Sudan.
The situation in Port Sudan remains volatile as the conflict shows no signs of abating, posing significant challenges for both the local population and ongoing relief efforts.