Geneva, March 24 (QNA) - The United Nations has reported that more than 500 civilians have been killed in drone strikes in Sudan since the start of the year, with the majority of casualties occurring in the strategic Kordofan region.

Speaking at a press conference, UN Human Rights Spokesperson Marta Hurtado highlighted the rapid increase in the use of drones for airstrikes, noting the devastating impact of relatively low-cost, advanced technology weapons in populated areas.

She said that from January 1 to March 15, over 500 civilians have died in drone attacks. The UN spokesperson added that attacks have continued over recent weeks, with more than 277 civilians killed by drones in the first two weeks of March alone, indicating an intensification of drone use in the conflict over the past few months.

Hurtado stressed that repeated strikes targeting civilians and infrastructure raise serious concerns under international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions to protect civilians.

She warned that such patterns of attacks, if found to systematically target civilians, could constitute war crimes.

The UN called for urgent measures to protect civilians and ensure compliance with international legal obligations amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan. (QNA)