Airstrike near Sudan-Egypt border kills 72 miners, rights group reports

A Sudan-based rights group reported that at least 72 Sudanese artisanal miners were killed in an airstrike near the Sudan-Egypt border. The attack occurred in a remote, disputed area known for illegal gold mining. The strike, which targeted a gold mine, is blamed on Egypt’s air force, though the claim has not been officially verified. Multiple sources, including Al Jazeera and local news outlets, cited the same casualty count and location. The incident has raised concerns over the impact of military actions on civilian populations.

The airstrike took place in northern Sudan, a region where artisanal mining is widespread and often operates in areas with limited government control. The area is also a point of contention between Sudan and Egypt, with both nations claiming sovereignty over parts of the border region. The attack has drawn criticism from human rights organizations, which have called for an investigation into the use of force against miners.

This incident follows a pattern of military escalation in the region, with both Sudan and Egypt engaging in cross-border operations. The airspace near the border has seen frequent military activity, with reports of strikes targeting suspected militant positions. The latest attack highlights the ongoing tensions and the risks faced by civilians caught in the crossfire. The situation remains under scrutiny as international bodies consider the implications of such actions on regional stability.