At least 330 children killed or injured in Sudan during first six months of 2026 as conflict takes escalating toll

NEW YORK/NAIROBI/KHARTOUM, 6 July 2026 – Children across Sudan continue to bear the brunt of a war that is becoming increasingly deadly, with at least 330 children reported killed or injured during the first six months of 2026. Darfur and Kordofan states continued to record the highest levels of child casualties.  

The situation in and around Al Obeid, and more broadly across North Kordofan, is particularly alarming. Since May 2026, drone strikes and other attacks have reportedly resulted in more than 35 child casualties in the state, including at least 18 children killed and more than 17 injured. The affected children ranged in age from just two months to 17 years. According to reports, drone attacks accounted for 60 per cent of these casualties, highlighting the growing impact of this method of warfare on children and families. 

Repeated drone strikes and shelling have also damaged civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools, health facilities, water systems and markets; disrupted supply routes and placed essential services under increasing strain. With an estimated 500,000 civilians at risk in and around Al Obeid and across North Kordofan, any further deterioration could expose even more children to death, injury, displacement and other grave protection risks.  

“Children are being caught in a relentless cycle of violence, displacement and deprivation,” said Sheldon Yett, UNICEF Representative for Sudan. “For many children, there is no safe place left. They are being killed and injured in their homes, on the roads, in markets, and while attempting to access essential services such as education and healthcare. Children must never be a target. Their lives, rights and futures must be protected.” 

The persistent threat of attacks has also deepened fear, anxiety and trauma among children, particularly in communities that have faced repeated bombardments and displacement. Children are not only facing the immediate risk of death and injury. The conflict continues to expose them to grave violations, including recruitment and use, abduction, sexual violence, and attacks on schools and hospitals.  

UNICEF calls on all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, allow and facilitate safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access, and take all possible measures to protect children from harm. 
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Notes for editors:
Multimedia materials available here: https://weshare.unicef.org/Package/2AM4080FDL1J