13 Children Killed and 4 Injured in Al-Kuma, North Darfur

Moatinoon
UNICEF has emphasized the need to end the ongoing violence against children in Sudan and to put an end to the disregard for their safety and rights. The organization pointed to reports of at least 13 children, aged between 6 and 17, being killed, and 4 others injured in airstrikes on the Al-Kuma area in North Darfur State on Friday.

Sheldon Yett, the UNICEF representative in Sudan, stated, "These attacks on children are unacceptable. Children play no role in wars or civil conflicts, yet they are the ones who suffer the most as the conflict in Sudan continues." He stressed the need for children to be safe everywhere — in their homes, neighborhoods, and on the streets.

Since Friday’s attack, UNICEF has received additional reports of civilians being killed and injured in earlier attacks today in Mellit, North Darfur. In a press release, the organization noted that more than 150 schools and hospitals have been attacked since the start of the conflict. Health centers, water points, and markets have also been damaged or destroyed. Last year witnessed the highest number of grave violations against children in Sudan in over a decade.

Yett said, "As the conflict rages on, we fear this horrific pattern will continue. Thousands of children and families are trapped in areas affected by violence, insecurity, and a lack of protection." He emphasized that the ongoing violence and the disregard for childrens safety and rights must come to an end.

The UN agency once again called on all parties to the conflict to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of children.