According to media reports, up to 60 people were killed in Saturday’s attack by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which has been fighting the Sudanese army since April 2023. The conflict has created a humanitarian catastrophe, with tens of millions living in conditions of acute hunger.
“This devastating attack on already displaced children and families seeking safety is an outrage,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “Killing and injuring children are serious violations of their rights, and attacks on civilians in places meant to offer safety and refuge are unconscionable.”
El Fasher has been under siege by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for more than 500 days, with severe restrictions on movement, access to food, water and medical care. Civilians, including a large number of children, have faced repeated shelling and deteriorating living conditions.
Several areas of northern Darfur have been suffering from famine for months and the food security and child nutrition situation in the state has reached catastrophic levels. Families survive on minimal rations and severe acute malnutrition among children is increasing sharply. Health centers report that preventable child deaths related to hunger and disease are increasing. The disruption of supply routes, the looting of aid convoys, and the denial of humanitarian access have made sustained relief efforts nearly impossible.
In the wake of the attacks, UNICEF reiterated calls for an immediate ceasefire and lifting of the siege, safe passage for civilians fleeing violence, unimpeded humanitarian access to affected populations, and accountability for those responsible for attacks on civilians.