Khartoum, Sudan — As the rainy season approaches in Sudan, the United Nations Women (UN Women) has expressed alarm over the perilous situation faced by women and girls in El Obeid.
The dual threats of drone attacks during the day and sexual violence at night have left them with no safe time to collect water, exacerbating their vulnerability during this critical period.
The approaching rainy season, expected to peak next month, heightens the risk of waterborne diseases. With the lack of safe water collection opportunities for women and girls in El Obeid, the situation is of critical concern. UN human rights chief Volker Türk has condemned the use of drones in Sudan, highlighting the deaths of over 200 civilians in the Kordofan region and White Nile state since March 2026.
In West Kordofan alone, at least 152 civilians, including at least 50 killed during drone strikes on a market and a hospital, have reportedly been killed.
The severity of the situation is underscored by the fact that these drone attacks have left women and girls in El Obeid without a safe window to collect water. UN Women has highlighted the specific vulnerability of women and girls in El Obeid, emphasizing the need for safe access to water and other essential services amidst the ongoing conflict. Volker Türk called for both sides in the conflict to abide by international law, particularly the prohibition on attacks against civilians and civilian objects.
The use of drones in warfare has raised significant concerns about their legality and ethical implications. While governments praise their precision and strategic effectiveness, human rights groups warn of potential legal and ethical violations.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has frequently asked questions about the use of drones in armed conflict, emphasizing the need for adherence to international humanitarian law.
As the rainy season approaches, the risks for women and girls in El Obeid are expected to increase.
The UN Women report underscores the urgency of addressing the immediate needs of these vulnerable populations, while also advocating for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The international community is called upon to act swiftly to ensure the safety and well — being of women and girls, while also working towards a lasting peace in Sudan.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: UN Women
