The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) expresses its strong condemnation of the indiscriminate bombing carried out by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) on Monday, 24 March 2025, targeting Tora Market in North Darfur.
This attack has caused dozens of deaths and injuries, with the death toll potentially reaching hundreds of victims, according to reliable sources. The bombing struck a densely populated area, hitting a bustling market at a time when many civilians were shopping. The massive destruction resulting from this attack further complicates access to basic services and humanitarian aid, leaving the population in an extremely vulnerable situation.
This attack marks a new and alarming escalation of violence against civilians, further worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis.
The ACHPR reminds all parties that the deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian infrastructure constitutes a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and human rights. These acts could be classified as war crimes and crimes against humanity, and those responsible must be held accountable.
The Commission calls for:
1. Immediate cessation of hostilities – All military operations threatening civilian lives and destroying essential infrastructure must cease immediately.
2. An independent and transparent investigation – A thorough and impartial investigation must be conducted to determine responsibility and ensure justice and reparations for the victims.
3. Immediate and unhindered humanitarian access – It is imperative to allow humanitarian organizations access to affected populations, so they can provide urgent medical assistance and essential aid.
The ACHPR expresses its unwavering solidarity with the victims and their families and will continue to closely monitor developments in Sudan. The Commission urges all stakeholders to engage in an inclusive and constructive dialogue to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict and establish a framework for justice for all violations committed.
End
Done in Banjul, The Gambia, on 26 March 2025
Honourable Commissioner Hatem Essaiem
Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Sudan
