Attack on Sudanese city leaves at least five dead and many others injured: UNICEF
The bomb hit Al-Khansa Girls’ High School and a crowded market in the city of El Obeid in Kordofan state, according to a statement. UNICEFSheldon Yett, released on Thursday.
This attack comes after another attack on Sunday. “A shell hit a UNICEF-supported child-friendly space in Al Hattana, Khartoum state, killing two boys and injuring at least eight others,” said Mr Yett.
He added that these attacks “came on the heels” of other attacks on medical facilities in other parts of the country.
Junta forces have been fighting a rival militia and former ally, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), for control of Sudan since April last year, plunging the country into chaos and a deepening humanitarian crisis.
Schools are closed.
Schools have been closed for more than a year due to internal conflict, leaving more than 17 million school-age children without access to safe education, UNICEF said.
Hundreds of partially open schools are being used as shelters for internally displaced people, further limiting children’s access to education.
“Attacks on schools are serious violations against children,” said Mr. Yett.Such attacks disrupt and deprive children of their right to education.“
Death and injury
UNICEF representatives reported that since the devastating civil war began, more than 110 schools and hospitals have been attacked.
These attacks have killed and injured thousands of children, Mr. Yett said.
“Many others have suffered other serious violations. including sexual violence and recruitment or use in conflict,” he said.
He noted that there had been a “five-fold increase in serious offences against children” in 2024 compared to the previous two years.
Mr Yett said the UN children’s agency called on all armed forces to end attacks on civilian facilities and infrastructure and to protect children in accordance with their international humanitarian law obligations.
“Schools provide children in war-torn countries with the opportunity to learn, play with friends and help them cope with trauma,” the representative said. “Attacks on schools, health facilities and other civilian must stop immediately“ .
