Dilling: An airstrike has obliterated two trucks carrying crucial food aid from the World Food Programme (WFP) intended to support approximately 5,800 people for a month near Dilling in Sudan's South Kordofan state.

According to Anadolu Agency, the WFP reported that the trucks, clearly marked with the agency's signs and flags, were attacked on August 30 as they made their way to Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan. In a statement, the WFP strongly condemned the aerial attack on the trucks, which were loaded with over 50 metric tons of food, including cereals, yellow split peas, vegetable oil, and salt. This destruction has deprived thousands of people who are in dire need of lifesaving assistance.

The WFP did not identify any individuals or groups responsible for the attack. However, the agency emphasized its commitment to supporting nearly 58,000 people who are experiencing emergency levels of food insecurity or worse through in-kind food assistance. Since the beginning of the year, the WFP has recorded eight aerial attacks that have damaged its premises and severely disrupted its operations. The agency called on all conflicting parties to adhere to international humanitarian law by safeguarding civilians, humanitarian personnel, and assets.

In related incidents, a drone attack on August 29, as reported by the Sudan Doctors Network, resulted in the deaths of three people and injuries to others in a market in Dilling. The drone was alleged to belong to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Moreover, the UN reported that 1,100 civilians were killed in drone attacks in Sudan between January and June this year. Sudanese authorities and rights groups have frequently accused the RSF of targeting civilian facilities, though the group often refrains from commenting on such allegations, claiming instead that it aims to protect civilians.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023 between the army and the RSF, has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands and the displacement of approximately 13 million people, according to UN and international estimates.