Drone Strike Disrupts Power in Sudan's Capital

Large swaths of Sudan's capital, Khartoum, were plunged into darkness for more than 12 hours on Tuesday following a drone strike on a critical power substation. The attack on the Al-Markhiyat transformer station in Omdurman, a suburb of Khartoum, has significantly disrupted electricity supply across the state, impacting essential services like hospitals and water distribution.

The state-run Sudanese Electricity Distribution Company confirmed "serious damage and technical faults" to its network, including several main stations and power lines. While the company's statement did not specify the cause, an official speaking to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity identified a drone attack as the source and attributed it to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This marks the second such attack on the Al-Markhiyat station this year.

The conflict between the Sudanese military and the RSF, which began in April 2023, has led to widespread destruction and a dire humanitarian crisis. Deadly drone attacks have become a feature of the war, though they have become less frequent in Khartoum since the military gained control of the capital in May 2025. The United Nations has voiced concerns about the use of drones across Sudan, noting their role in civilian casualties, including children, and the disruption of vital services.

Residents reported hearing drones shortly before the explosion that caused the power outage. "At around 4:30 in the morning, on my way to dawn prayers, I heard the sound of a drone very close by, and just moments later a huge explosion, and the power went out," Abdel-Hafiz Abdel-Mutaal, who lives near the substation, told the AP. "I saw fire burning at the transformer station."

The prolonged power outage has left citizens struggling. Adel Ali, a diabetes patient in south Khartoum, expressed concern about preserving his insulin supply, which requires refrigeration. He also noted the paralysis of daily life and the emerging bread crisis as many bakeries were forced to close due to the lack of electricity, potentially driving up food prices.

Technical teams are still assessing the full extent of the damage, with estimates suggesting up to 60% of the capital's power supply could be affected. The electricity company has stated that power rationing will be extended until repairs are completed, without providing a timeline. Efforts to restore power are underway, with technical teams working around the clock.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in at least 59,000 deaths, according to ACLED, with aid organizations believing the actual toll to be higher. More than two-thirds of Sudan's population relies on aid, and 825,000 children are suffering from acute malnutrition. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification has warned of worsening food insecurity in greater Darfur and Kordofan, putting these regions at risk of famine. In response, over 30 countries, including the United States and the European Commission, have urged the warring parties to remove obstacles to humanitarian assistance.