Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) launched a coordinated drone attack targeting five power stations across three eastern states, resulting in widespread power outages, according to a government official.

The attacks, which occurred on Monday, hit two power stations each in Al-Jazira and Gedaref states, and one in White Nile state. These regions are currently controlled by the Sudanese army, which has been in conflict with its former ally, the RSF, since April 2023.

The United Nations has previously expressed grave concerns that repeated attacks on critical infrastructure like power stations endanger the health and well-being of millions already grappling with severe food insecurity. Residents in affected areas reported prolonged electricity cuts, with one individual in Gedaref highlighting the critical need for refrigeration for diabetic medication.

These power outages are expected to further disrupt essential services and exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Sudan. The conflict, which has been ongoing for over a year, has seen a significant increase in drone warfare, with both sides employing sophisticated aerial attacks.

In the initial three weeks of October alone, drone strikes were responsible for the deaths of over 300 civilians and injured hundreds more, according to United Nations figures. The war has had a devastating impact on Sudan, a country of approximately 50 million people, with aid organizations estimating that over 200,000 lives have been lost.

The conflict has crippled the nation's infrastructure, forcing a majority of hospitals to cease operations. Furthermore, an estimated 8 million children have been deprived of education, and large sections of the population are unable to access basic services.

Past drone strikes on power stations and hydroelectric dams have led to electricity being cut off for days at a time, highlighting the recurring vulnerability of the country's power grid. The current offensive by the RSF on energy infrastructure underscores the escalating nature of the conflict.

The long-term consequences of these attacks on power infrastructure remain a significant concern, potentially hindering recovery efforts and prolonging the suffering of the civilian population. The international community continues to monitor the humanitarian fallout from the ongoing war in Sudan.