The Sudanese Alliance for Rights (SAR) condemns in the strongest terms the tragic attack in the Al-Mazrub area of North Kordofan State, which took place on Friday, 17 October 2025. This horrific incident, which occurred during an army offensive, has resulted in the deaths and injuries of dozens of innocent civilians, including the community leader of the area, with many more civilians left without homes or shelter.
We, the Sudanese Alliance for Rights, are deeply disturbed by the loss of life and the immense suffering caused to the residents of the Al-Mazrub area. This became an area of horrific violence, leaving families and residents of the area in a state of shock and despair as a result of the enormity of the human losses resulting from the attack. This attack represents a blatant violation of several international laws, including:
- International Humanitarian Law (IHL): The attack on a civilian market is a direct violation of the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit targeting civilians and civilian objects during armed conflicts.
- Customary International Law: Attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under customary international law, which underscores the obligation to protect civilians from the effects of armed conflict.
- International Human Rights Law (IHRL): The right to life has been grossly violated. The mass casualties and destruction of homes contravene the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
- The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights: The attack violates several provisions of the African Charter, including the right to life (Article 4)
SAR calls on all relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible for this attack are held accountable and brought to justice. The safety and protection of civilians must be a priority in any conflict, and this incident underscores the urgent need for stronger efforts to safeguard human lives in the region.
As part of our ongoing commitment to human rights, SAR will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the full scope of the attack and its consequences.
SAR extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and pledges to continue its efforts in advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of human rights in Sudan.
Sudanese Alliance for Rights
17 October 2025
