Sudan: Amid lethal drone attacks, children bear brunt of escalating war
Sudan: Escalating Conflict Targets Children Amid Lethal Drone Strikes
Sudan - As the conflict in Sudan intensifies, the humanitarian crisis has placed children at the center of the devastation. According to UNICEF, over the first half of 2026, at least 330 children were killed or wounded, underscoring the growing toll on the youngest population. This trend highlights the alarming nature of the war, which erupted between rival military factions in April 2023.
UNICEF Condemns Violence Against Children
“Children are trapped in an unending cycle of conflict and suffering,” stated Sheldon Yett, UNICEF’s Sudan representative. “With no refuge from the chaos, they face danger in their homes, on roads, in markets, and even when seeking basic needs like education and medical care. Every child deserves protection; their lives and future must be preserved.”
Drone attacks, which now account for 60% of child casualties, have become a dominant force in the war’s brutality. These strikes, coupled with ground assaults, have disrupted daily life and exposed families to constant threats. A UN Human Rights Council emergency session on July 3 led to a resolution urging an investigation into the worsening conditions in El Obeid.
UNICEF warns that up to 500,000 civilians in El Obeid and surrounding regions of North Kordofan face heightened risks. The situation in Darfur and Kordofan states remains critical, with these areas reporting the highest child casualties. Recent reports indicate over 35 children have been affected in one state since May 2026, including 18 fatalities and 17 injuries.
The youngest victims range from infants to teenagers, emphasizing the widespread impact of the violence. In addition to physical harm, repeated attacks have crippled essential services, damaging homes, schools, health centers, and water systems. Supply lines are also under strain, exacerbating the challenges for displaced families.
Psychological trauma has deepened among children, especially in communities experiencing frequent bombardments. UNICEF highlights that the conflict extends beyond immediate dangers, involving the recruitment of minors, abduction, sexual assault, and attacks on educational and healthcare facilities. The agency urges all combatants to prioritize civilian safety.
Cholera Outbreak Complicates Crisis
The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns about a cholera outbreak in West Kordofan, linked to the conflict. Disrupted health services, contaminated water sources, inadequate sanitation, and population displacement have created ideal conditions for the disease to spread. By June 20, over 838 suspected cases and seven confirmed cases were reported from three locations, with 117 deaths linked to the outbreak.
A collaborative mission by WHO and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) recently visited Sudan to coordinate efforts with local authorities and communities. This initiative aims to address rising health demands and strengthen response mechanisms amid the ongoing turmoil.