The Norwegian-African Organization for Development and Human Rights expresses its profound concern over reports from local sources alleging that airstrikes targeted artisanal mining sites in the Jebel Al-Aqeedat area, near Al-Ansari Market along the Sudan–Egypt border, on 10 October 2026

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF CONDEMNATION AND CALL FOR AN INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION Concerning Reports of Airstrikes on Civilian Mining Sites in the Jebel Al-Aqeedat Area Near the Sudan–Egypt Border 1. Background and Reported Incident The Norwegian-African Organization for Development and Human Rights expresses its profound concern over reports from local sources alleging that airstrikes targeted artisanal mining sites in the Jebel Al-Aqeedat area, near Al-Ansari Market along the Sudan–Egypt border, on 10 October 2026. According to preliminary accounts, the reported strikes resulted in civilian deaths and injuries among Sudanese artisanal miners working in the area. Some reports have attributed the alleged attacks to Egyptian military aircraft. However, the Organization emphasizes that the identity of those responsible, the precise circumstances of the incident, and the final number of casualties have not yet been independently verified. The Organization therefore calls for an immediate, impartial, transparent, and credible investigation to establish the facts, determine responsibility, and ensure justice for the victims. 2. International Legal Framework The Organization strongly condemns any unlawful attack against civilians and civilian objects, regardless of the identity or affiliation of those responsible. Under international humanitarian law, where applicable, parties to an armed conflict are required to distinguish between civilians and combatants and between civilian objects and military objectives. The Organization underscores three fundamental principles: Distinction:Parties to an armed conflict must distinguish between civilians and combatants and may direct attacks only against lawful military objectives. Proportionality:Attacks are prohibited when the expected incidental civilian harm would be excessive in relation to the concrete and direct military advantage anticipated. Precaution:All feasible precautions must be taken to avoid or, at a minimum, minimize incidental civilian deaths, injuries, and damage to civilian objects. The Organization further emphasizes that international human rights law protects the right to life and requires effective investigations into potentially unlawful deaths. Any violation of Sudan's sovereignty or territorial integrity must also be assessed in accordance with the United Nations Charter and applicable international law. Should the reported attacks be substantiated, their legality and the potential responsibility of those involved must be determined through an independent investigation based on credible evidence. 3. Calls for Immediate International Action In accordance with its commitment to human rights, international justice, impartiality, and the protection of civilians, the Norwegian-African Organization for Development and Human Rights calls upon the following institutions and stakeholders to take appropriate action. To the United Nations and the UN Security Council: - Support an urgent, independent, and transparent investigation into the reported incident. - Facilitate safe and unhindered access for independent investigators and human rights monitoring mechanisms. - Promote accountability through appropriate international mechanisms where violations are established. To the African Union: - Address the reported incident within its mandate to promote peace, security, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of African states. - Consider establishing or supporting an independent African fact-finding mechanism. - Encourage cooperation among the states concerned to prevent further incidents and protect civilian populations. To the Egyptian and Sudanese Authorities: - Provide clear and transparent information regarding the reported airstrikes. - Cooperate fully with credible and independent investigations. - Take all necessary measures to protect civilians, safeguard human life, and prevent further harm. - Ensure that victims and their families have access to justice and effective remedies. To the International Community and Human Rights Institutions: - Support independent documentation and monitoring of alleged violations in Sudan's border regions. - Provide humanitarian, medical, psychological, and legal assistance to affected individuals and families. - Support the protection of witnesses, survivors, and individuals providing evidence. - Encourage diplomatic cooperation aimed at preventing further escalation and safeguarding civilian lives. 4. Our Guiding Principles The Norwegian-African Organization for Development and Human Rights reaffirms its commitment to the following principles: Impartiality: Protecting human rights without discrimination or political favoritism. Independence: Maintaining positions grounded in international human rights standards rather than political or military interests. Objectivity: Relying on credible, verifiable information and avoiding premature conclusions. Transparency: Promoting accurate documentation, responsible reporting, and openness regarding available evidence. Accountability: Advocating for independent investigations, justice for victims, and accountability for perpetrators, regardless of their identity or position. These principles remain central to the Organization's work in promoting human dignity, peace, development, and international solidarity. 5. Recommendations The Organization recommends the following immediate measures: 1. Establish an independent international fact-finding mechanism with expertise in international humanitarian law, human rights, and forensic investigation. 2. Ensure the preservation of relevant evidence and the protection of survivors, witnesses, and affected communities. 3. Provide urgent humanitarian and medical assistance to injured civilians and support to bereaved families. 4. Pursue independent judicial investigations wherever credible evidence indicates potential criminal responsibility. 5. Strengthen civilian protection, independent monitoring, and early-warning mechanisms in vulnerable border areas. 6. Promote constructive diplomatic engagement to prevent further violations and preserve regional peace and stability. 6. Conclusion The Norwegian-African Organization for Development and Human Rights expresses its deepest sympathy and solidarity with the victims, their families, and all civilians affected by the reported incident. The Organization reiterates that the protection of civilian life must remain a fundamental priority, regardless of political circumstances, military considerations, or regional disputes. We firmly believe that respect for international law, the protection of human dignity, and the pursuit of justice are essential foundations for sustainable peace and regional stability. Civilian lives must never be treated as expendable. Sovereignty must be respected, allegations of serious violations must be independently investigated, and victims must not be denied their right to truth, justice, and accountability. The Organization calls upon all relevant authorities and international institutions to respond responsibly, transparently, and without delay. Media and External Relations Department Oslo, Norway 11 October 2026