The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has condemned the drone attack targeting the airport in Kisangani, in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, warning that the incident poses serious risks to civilians and regional stability.

In a statement, Youssouf expressed deep concern over the attack, which was claimed by the armed rebel group AFC/M23, describing it as a grave violation of international humanitarian law. He said the strike endangered civilian populations by targeting airport infrastructure located within a major urban center.

Youssouf emphasized that such attacks breach the fundamental principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution under international humanitarian law.

Citing key African Union legal instruments, including the 1999 OAU Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism and its 2004 Protocol, Youssouf said the incident could qualify as a terrorist act.

He further warned against the expansion of hostilities into cities far from front lines, describing such developments as a dangerous escalation that threatens national and regional stability and worsens the already dire humanitarian situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The AU Commission Chairperson called on AFC/M23 to immediately cease hostilities.

He urged all parties to proceed without delay and in good faith with the full implementation of the Doha Agreement, describing it as a critical foundation for a ceasefire, de-escalation and a return to political dialogue.