Sudan's Civil War Takes a Dramatic Turn: The Attack on a UAE Plane
In a stunning escalation of the Sudanese civil war, the Sudanese army has claimed responsibility for a direct attack on a United Arab Emirates (UAE) aircraft in Darfur, alleging it was carrying foreign mercenaries and military supplies for the rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This strike at Nyala Airport, a strategic RSF stronghold, has not only sparked a new level of military confrontation but has also pulled a major international player directly into the spotlight.
The dramatic incident reportedly occurred on August 6, 2025, when the Sudanese air force launched a surprise strike on a runway at Nyala Airport, a key logistical hub for the RSF. According to reports from Sudan's state television, the plane, which had taken off from a Gulf airbase, was "bombed and completely destroyed" as it was landing. The most shocking detail? The attack allegedly resulted in the deaths of over 40 Colombian mercenaries onboard, a grim indicator of the war's internationalized nature.
This bold move by the Sudanese army is a direct consequence of long-simmering accusations. The Sudanese government has repeatedly and forcefully alleged that the UAE is providing sophisticated weaponry, including drones, and funding to the RSF. While the UAE has consistently denied these claims, reports from UN experts and other international observers have pointed to a different reality, suggesting a clear line of support for the RSF.
The presence of Colombian mercenaries in the conflict is not new, with reports dating back to late 2024. Many of these fighters are former soldiers, drawn to the conflict for financial reasons. The recent attack has brought this issue to the forefront, prompting an urgent response from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who has stated his government is working to identify the victims and is moving to ban mercenary activity, describing it as "a trade in men turned into commodities to kill."
The attack in Nyala is more than just a military victory for the Sudanese army; it's a powerful and "blatant message" against what it views as foreign interference. It marks a new chapter in a brutal conflict that has already displaced millions and created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. With tensions at an all-time high and diplomatic ties between Sudan and the UAE already severed, the consequences of this incident could have far-reaching effects, further destabilizing an already volatile region.
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