The International Crisis Group, in a report on developments in Sudan, stated that the drone attacks on Port Sudan over three consecutive days—from May 4 to May 6—represent a major expansion of the war and a significant strategic development. These attacks have extended the conflict to Sudan’s far east for the first time and risk drawing regional powers deeper into the conflict, escalating regional tensions and worsening the suffering of the civilian population.
The Crisis Group confirmed that these attacks will deepen regional tensions surrounding the war. On May 6, the Sudanese government severed diplomatic ties with the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The UAE maintains friendly relations with several of Sudan’s neighbors. Conversely, the attacks may prompt Red Sea nations—such as Egypt, Eritrea, and Saudi Arabia, all aligned with Sudan’s Armed Forces—to provide more direct support, driven by concerns that the war may spread to their borders.
Sudan’s Armed Forces stated that the drones originated from the east, crossing over the sea, raising questions about their source. The RSF has not responded to the accusations. The drones targeted both Port Sudan—hundreds of kilometers from any known RSF positions—and Kassala, near Sudan’s border with Eritrea.
Sudan expert Shewit Woldemichael from the International Crisis Group explained that these strikes represent both an expansion of Sudan’s brutal war and a major strategic shift. She noted that the RSF suffered a significant defeat in late March when the capital, Khartoum, was liberated. Throughout the conflict, both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF have deployed increasingly advanced drone and counter-drone technologies.
