Sudan's Port Sudan Faces Catastrophic Power Outage Amidst Ongoing Paramilitary Assaults

Port Sudan has plunged into darkness following targeted drone attacks on vital infrastructure amidst continued paramilitary assaults, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the city.

In a devastating turn of events, a series of drone strikes have struck a crucial power station located in Port Sudan, leading to what the country's electricity supplier deems a "complete power outage." The escalating conflict has seen the paramilitary group, Rapid Support Forces (RSF), assault the city for three consecutive days, including attacks on its main international airport, resulting in widespread damage and chaos.

Journalist Cristina Karrer painted a grim picture, stating, "I see a huge cloud and fire going like all around the city... and I heard also now that they were like two more loud bangs. It looks quite apocalyptic." As thick black smoke billowed from the skyline of this city, which had previously served as a refuge for many fleeing the prolonged civil war, the ongoing violence is raising fears among residents.

Recent reports indicate that drone strikes targeted both the civilian section of Port Sudan's airport and gas depots, inciting devastation in areas densely populated with civilians, including UN officials and diplomatic personnel. Following the attacks, humanitarian agencies, including the UN, have temporarily suspended aid flights to Port Sudan, although they continue their regular operations unharmed.

Sudan's government spokesperson, Khaled Al-Aiser, asserted that military forces are taking every possible measure to secure the affected facilities while emphasizing the resilience of the Sudanese populace. Nonetheless, the RSF has not yet issued a response following claims of responsibility from the military for the drone strikes, which have reshaped the dynamics of the two-year-long conflict.

The African Union has denounced the attacks as a "dangerous escalation," highlighting the severe threats posed to civilians and humanitarian access in the region. Historically, Port Sudan had maintained a semblance of safety amid the turmoil engulfing the country, making these assaults particularly alarming.

The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and RSF has resulted in thousands of casualties and has forced millions from their homes, contributing to what officials are calling the world's worst humanitarian crisis. Accusations of war crimes have marred both factions as they continue their brutal fight for control over the nation.