Drone strike kills 11 Christians on their way to Christmas service in Sudan

Three women touch the cross as they exit the Catholic church in the refugee camp in Shagarab, Sudan. Photo: Abdulmonam Eassa/Getty Images

On December 25, 2025, in Sudan’s South Kordofan state, a drone strike by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) killed at least 11 Christians who were traveling to a Christmas service, Morning Star News reports.

According to a local Christian attorney, the attack targeted a group of parishioners walking to the Episcopal Church of Sudan in the Biam–Jald area on Christmas morning. In addition to those killed, at least 18 people suffered severe injuries and were taken to medical facilities.

The church building itself was not damaged – the strike hit civilians who were on their way to the festive service. The source noted that the victims had no connection to any military formations and were participating in religious celebrations.

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement–North (SPLM–N) also stated that the drone struck a civilian population celebrating Christmas. The Biam–Jald area where the attack occurred is under the group’s control.

The attack took place amid the ongoing armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. According to human rights organizations, the conflict has been accompanied by increasing violence against Christians and other civilians.

“Christians of all backgrounds are trapped in the chaos, unable to flee. Churches are shelled, looted and occupied by the warring parties,” the report stated.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that in Indonesia, Muslims prevented Christians from attending a Christmas service.

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