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Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched an attack on Port Sudan early on Tuesday morning, targeting key infrastructure in the Red Sea city. Military sources confirmed explosions near vital facilities, and thick smoke could be seen rising over the city, with online footage documenting the damage. While no official figures have been released regarding casualties or the extent of the destruction, the attack further highlights the intensifying conflict in Sudan.

Details of the Attack and Damage to Port Sudan

According to military insiders, the RSF’s assault took place in the early hours of the morning. Footage from the scene showed dark plumes of smoke rising above fuel storage facilities. Sources indicated that the attack caused significant damage, but official reports remain scarce. Sudan’s Information Minister, Khalid Aleiser, visited the site of the explosions and publicly accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of supplying weapons to the RSF. “We will continue our legitimate battle,” Aleiser stated, emphasizing the Sudanese government’s stance.

UAE Denies Involvement and Calls for Peace Talks

In response, the UAE condemned the attacks on Port Sudan and the nearby city of Kassala, calling them violations of international humanitarian law. A spokesperson for the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected the accusations made by Aleiser, insisting that the UAE had no role in the conflict. Furthermore, the UAE urged both sides in the Sudanese war to engage in dialogue to de-escalate tensions and seek a peaceful resolution. The UAE’s position stands in stark contrast to Sudan’s claims, deepening the diplomatic rift between the two countries.

Port Sudan’s Strategic Role and Recent Strikes

Port Sudan has become increasingly significant as the government’s power base and a refuge for thousands of displaced Sudanese. This week’s attack marked the second strike in as many days. On Sunday, explosions had already rocked the city, further alarming both local residents and international observers. The city’s importance as a critical hub for Sudan’s oil and maritime trade adds to the concern regarding the ongoing violence in the region.

Legal Battle: Sudan vs. UAE at the International Court of Justice

In another blow to Sudan’s legal efforts, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) dismissed Sudan’s case against the UAE on Monday. Sudan had accused the UAE of complicity in genocide but the ICJ ruled that it lacked jurisdiction over the case. While both countries signed the 1948 Genocide Convention, the UAE had previously excluded itself from the court’s jurisdiction under a specific clause, making it impossible for the case to proceed.

Impact of the Conflict: Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis

The ongoing conflict between Sudan’s army and the RSF, which began in April 2023, has caused widespread devastation. Starting in Khartoum, the fighting quickly spread to other regions, and the death toll has been estimated to range from 24,000 to 150,000 people. The war has led to the displacement of 13 million individuals, with at least 4 million fleeing the country entirely.

The humanitarian situation continues to worsen. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that approximately 25 million people in Sudan are facing acute food insecurity. According to the IPC Famine Review Committee, famine conditions have been confirmed in five regions, and experts predict that five additional areas could soon experience similar levels of crisis.

Disruption of Transport and Ongoing Crisis

The impact of the Tuesday attack was felt beyond just the immediate destruction. Travel routes were disrupted, with three flights to Port Sudan canceled on Tuesday morning, according to data from Cairo Airport. Satellite imagery from Planet Labs PBC showed extensive damage to fuel tanks southeast of the city, owned by the Sudan National Petroleum Corporation. The continued attacks on vital infrastructure threaten to deepen Sudan’s economic and humanitarian crises.

As the fighting continues, there are few signs of a resolution. The Sudanese government’s accusations against the UAE add another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation. With millions displaced and famine spreading, the international community faces growing pressure to intervene and broker a ceasefire. For now, however, the conflict appears poised to continue, with Port Sudan and other cities caught in the crossfire.

The latest developments underscore the urgency of diplomatic efforts to address the crisis. Both Sudanese officials and international actors must prioritize humanitarian aid and pursue dialogue to end the conflict and alleviate the suffering of millions of people.