Khartoum, Sudan — A drone strike on the Ar Rahad market in North Kordofan province has resulted in the death of at least two children and injuries to six others, ranging in age from six to 14, according to UNICEF reports.
The attack, which took place on July 21, 2026, has reignited concerns over the impact of the ongoing conflict on civilian populations, particularly children.
The Ar Rahad market, a hub for local families to purchase food and meet basic needs, has become a focal point of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) conflict. This incident follows a pattern of aerial and drone strikes on civilian areas, schools, and humanitarian operations, with UNICEF documenting over 330 children killed or injured in Sudan in the first half of 2026. UNICEF’s Representative in Sudan, Sheldon Yett, emphasized the tragedy of children being targeted in the conflict, noting that markets, schools, and hospitals are supposed to be protected civilian spaces.
He called for an immediate halt to such attacks and for all parties to comply with international humanitarian law.
The Sudan Doctors Network has highlighted the indiscriminate nature of the conflict, pointing to the February 2026 RSF drone strike on a vehicle transporting displaced families, which resulted in the deaths of at least eight children.
The Network has called for sanctions against the RSF leadership and an independent investigation into such incidents.
As the conflict persists, the international community is urged to demand accountability and take action to protect children and other vulnerable populations in Sudan.
The Ar Rahad market attack is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the ongoing conflict.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: reliefweb
Source: UN Children's Fund
