UN warns of civilian deaths, rising risks after drone strike near Sudan-Chad border

WASHINGTON

The UN expressed alarm on Thursday over a deadly drone strike near the Sudan-Chad border, warning that escalating violence and the spread of advanced weapons are increasing risks to civilians and regional stability.

"We are alarmed by reports that a drone strike yesterday killed at least 17 civilians and injured many more on the Chadian side of the town of Tine, which borders Sudan and Chad," deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters. "This attack highlights the devastating human cost of the Sudanese conflict and how rapidly the frontlines are shifting, with border communities increasingly exposed to violence."

Haq warned that such incidents raise wider instability, as neighboring countries face a growing possibility of being drawn into the conflict. The increasing use of more powerful drones by both sides, he added, is expanding the battlefield and accelerating civilian harm.

"We call on the warring parties to immediately de-escalate the fighting, comply with international humanitarian law and return to the negotiating table to pursue a sustainable resolution to this conflict," he said. ​​​​​​​