At least 330 children in Sudan were killed or injured in the initial six months of 2026, as per a report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Darfur and Kordofan states saw the highest numbers of child casualties during this period. Drone strikes and other attacks since May 2026 led to over 35 child casualties in the state, with 18 children killed and more than 17 injured, ranging from two months to 17 years old.
Repeated drone strikes and shelling have caused damage to civilian infrastructure such as homes, schools, health facilities, water systems, and markets. This has disrupted supply routes and put essential services under strain. The situation in and around Al Obeid, across North Kordofan, is described as “particularly alarming” with an estimated 500,000 civilians at risk.
Sheldon Yett, UNICEF Representative for Sudan, expressed concern over the escalating violence affecting children. He emphasized that children are facing dangers in various settings, including their homes, roads, markets, and while seeking essential services like education and healthcare. The report stressed the need for all parties in the conflict to safeguard civilians and infrastructure, ensure humanitarian access, and protect children from harm.
The conflict not only poses immediate risks of death and injury to children but also exposes them to severe violations such as recruitment, abduction, sexual violence, and attacks on schools and hospitals. UNICEF urged for measures to shield children from these grave violations and ensure their safety and well-being.
