Wed Dec 10 17:29:00 UTC 2025: ## Drone Strike Kills Dozens Near Sudanese Oil Facility, Raising Regional Tensions

Juba, South Sudan – Updated December 11, 2025, 02:50 AM IST – A drone strike attributed to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) killed dozens near Sudan’s largest oil processing facility in Heglig on Tuesday evening, escalating the already volatile conflict between the SAF and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF, which seized the Heglig facility near the border with South Sudan the previous day, condemned the attack, claiming it resulted in the deaths of tribal leaders, RSF troopers, and even South Sudanese soldiers.

While the exact death toll remains unconfirmed, local reports indicate significant casualties. South Sudan’s Unity State government confirmed the deaths of three of its soldiers. One South Sudanese soldier, speaking anonymously, estimated the number of fatalities at approximately 25. RSF claims the drone used in the attack was a Turkish-made Akinci.

The strike follows the RSF’s capture of Heglig, a strategically important oil field, after Sudanese soldiers and oil workers began evacuating on Monday. Approximately 3,900 Sudanese soldiers reportedly surrendered to South Sudanese forces after crossing the border into Rubkona County.

The ongoing conflict in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has had a devastating impact on the region. An estimated 150,000 people have been killed, millions displaced, and multiple famines triggered. The capture of Heglig represents the latest in a string of territorial gains for the RSF, including the fall of El-Fasher in October.

South Sudan, heavily reliant on Sudanese pipelines for its oil exports, faces significant economic repercussions due to repeated disruptions caused by the conflict. The recent events have further complicated South Sudan’s position, with accusations of siding with the RSF despite the government’s insistence on neutrality.

The situation remains fluid and raises concerns about the potential for further escalation and regional instability. Analysts suggest the RSF’s control of Heglig could become a crucial bargaining chip, while the economic impact on all involved parties remains uncertain given the opaque nature of oil finances. The conflict also triggers a humanitarian crisis on the border, with thousands of civilians fleeing Sudan into South Sudan in search of safety. The influx of Sudanese refugees continues to grow since Sunday.

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