The United Nations World Food Programme announced that it “strongly condemned an airstrike that targeted two trucks contracted by the programme to transport its food supplies during the early hours of Saturday in South Kordofan State.”
In a press statement, the programme said that “the airstrike killed one of the drivers. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.” It noted that the two trucks were traveling from Dilling to Kadugli and bore clear markings indicating that they were vehicles designated for humanitarian operations. It added that efforts were still underway to gather further details about the circumstances of the incident, including the extent of the damage to the food shipment.
According to the statement published on the programme’s website on Sunday, the WFP called for “an immediate and impartial investigation into this incident and for those responsible for any violations that may have been committed to be held accountable.”
It said: “This latest attack came just one day after a WFP truck struck an explosive device in Dilling, South Kordofan, after delivering life-saving food assistance.”
The statement stressed that “the World Food Programme urges all parties to the conflict to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and ensure the safe and unhindered movement of humanitarian workers and relief shipments.”
It further stressed that these incidents highlight the increasingly difficult security environment in Sudan and the risks faced by aid workers while delivering life-saving assistance to communities in need. The programme reaffirmed its commitment to continuing to safely provide life-saving assistance to millions of women, men and children who depend on humanitarian support across Sudan.
The Al-Muhaqqiq news website notes that the cities of Dilling and Kadugli are under the control of the Sudanese Army.
