Drone attacks struck Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, early Tuesday morning, targeting areas near the international airport just one day before its scheduled reopening. Witnesses reported multiple explosions between 4am and 6am, with drones heard across central and southern Khartoum. The airport, closed since fighting began in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has been undergoing reconstruction after the army regained control of the capital. Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, visited the airport following the attack and vowed to protect the country from further threats.
According to local media, more than eight blasts were reported, with some sources alleging the use of “suicide drones” launched by the RSF. While Sudanese forces claimed to have intercepted some drones, additional strikes were reported in nearby Omdurman, another city with major military facilities. No group has officially claimed responsibility. Despite these attacks, authorities announced plans to gradually resume domestic flights, though concerns remain high over potential threats to civilian aviation once operations begin.
This was the third drone attack on Khartoum in just one week, reflecting ongoing instability despite the army’s control over the city. More than 800,000 residents have returned since fighting eased, and the government has begun rebuilding efforts. However, many parts of the city remain destroyed, and frequent power outages are linked to continued RSF drone activity. The most intense fighting is now focused in Darfur, where the RSF is attempting to seize the last remaining city outside its control, raising fears of imminent mass atrocities as warned by the United Nations.
The wider conflict in Sudan has resulted in immense human suffering, with tens of thousands killed and nearly 12 million displaced, creating the world’s worst displacement and hunger crises. Although international pressure has increased for negotiations (particularly from the US, Egypt, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia) Sudan’s military leadership has rejected any future role for the RSF. The recent drone strikes highlight the ongoing volatility in the country and growing fears that renewed violence may endanger civilians and derail efforts toward peace.
Reference:
Quillen, S. (2025, October 21). Drone attack in Sudan threatens Khartoum airport’s reopening: Reports. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/10/21/drone-attack-in-sudan-threatens-khartoum-airports-reopening-reports