Sudan Suspends Heglig Oilfield Operations After RSF Drone Attacks

Sudan has suspended operations at the Heglig oilfield, a critical facility for South Sudan’s oil exports, following deadly drone attacks attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which resulted in the deaths of five workers and injuries to seven others. The attacks occurred over the weekend, prompting an urgent evacuation of personnel and a halt to all operations at the site.

The Heglig oilfield, located near the border with South Sudan, has faced increasing security threats amid ongoing conflict in the region. The RSF, a paramilitary group involved in the Sudanese civil war, has intensified its attacks on key infrastructure, raising concerns over the safety of oil production and export in the area.

This incident marks a significant escalation in the violence that has plagued Sudan since the outbreak of conflict in April 2023. The oilfield has been a vital contributor to South Sudan"s economy, and its shutdown could have far-reaching implications for the nation’s struggling oil exports, which are crucial for its revenue.

As the situation unfolds, international observers are closely monitoring the security landscape in Sudan. The recent attacks highlight the ongoing instability in the region, reminiscent of other recent developments in global hotspots, such as the artillery aid to Ukraine and rising military tensions in Venezuela.