The Sudanese Alliance for Rights strongly condemns the reported drone strikes carried out by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on Friday, 20 March 2026, Eid Al Fitr, in El Daein City, East Darfur State.
On a day meant for peace, reflection, and celebration, the people of El Daein were met with violence and loss. The reported strike on a hospital, a place that must remain a protected space under all circumstances, has resulted in the killing of more than 40 people and left at least 80 others wounded, with the number of casualties expected to rise. Among the victims are women and children.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those killed and stand in solidarity with the injured and all those affected by this devastating attack.
This attack constitutes a serious violation of international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution, which require all parties to a conflict to distinguish between civilians and combatants and to avoid harm to civilian objects. Medical facilities and personnel are afforded special protection under the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols. Intentionally directing attacks against hospitals and civilians may amount to war crimes under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.
That this attack occurred on Eid al-Fitr, a time that symbolises compassion, mercy, and peace, further deepens the pain and outrage felt by communities across Sudan and beyond.
We call for prompt, independent, and transparent investigations into this incident. In this regard, we urge relevant regional and international bodies, including the International Criminal Court, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the African Union, and the United Nations Human Rights Council, to take urgent steps to ensure accountability and justice for the victims.
We further call on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure and to fully comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.
The Sudanese Alliance for Rights reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advocating for the protection of civilians, accountability for violations, and the pursuit of justice and lasting peace in Sudan.
Sudan Alliance for Rights
21 March 2026
