Children Are Not Targets: Save the Children Demands Immediate Action to Enforce International Humanitarian Law and Protect Civilians in Sudan

Port Sudan, 16th October 2025

At least 17 children – nine girls and eight boys, including a newborn just seven days old – were killed in an attack on the Dar al-Arqam Displacement Centre in El Fasher, North Darfur, on 11 October, according to verified reports from humanitarian partners and international media. A further 21 children were injured.

The displacement centre, which had been providing shelter to families forced to flee earlier clashes, was struck amid ongoing conflict in and around El Fasher. The city has been under siege for over 500 days, leaving children and families trapped under extreme deprivation, with access to food, clean water and medical care severely restricted.

“No child should ever be killed or injured in conflict. The deliberate or reckless harm of children, or attacks on the places where they should be safe, is indefensible. All parties must protect children and uphold international humanitarian law — it is a duty owed to every child,” said Francesco Lanino Deputy Country Director of Programming, Save the Children Sudan.

“Save the Children will continue to stand with the children of Sudan, calling for their protection, and working tirelessly to deliver the aid they urgently need."

Humanitarian agencies have documented that schools, health facilities and displacement sites in El Fasher have been repeatedly affected in recent weeks, worsening an already critical situation.

Independent sources indicate that communities in parts of North Darfur are facing famine-like conditions, with widespread hunger and rising levels of child malnutrition due to prolonged siege and restricted humanitarian access.

Attacks on civilians, schools, hospitals and shelters constitute serious violations of International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law, including the Geneva Conventions, and may amount to grave violations against children under international humanitarian law. All parties to the conflict are legally obligated to protect children, uphold their rights, and ensure their safety and care.

Save the Children urgently calls for:

An immediate end to hostilities and the lifting of the siege on El Fasher.

• Strict adherence to International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law, including the protection of children and civilian infrastructure.
• Safe and unhindered access for humanitarian organisations to deliver life-saving assistance.
• Safe passage for families fleeing conflict, in conditions that protect their dignity and security.
• Accountability for serious violations against children and other civilians.

Children in Sudan are enduring unimaginable suffering. Each day the conflict continues, more young lives are lost. Protecting children must remain the absolute priority – for all parties to the conflict and the international community alike.

Sources: UNICEF (12 October 2025), OCHA Situation Reports, BBC News, Reuters (12–13 October 2025)

For more information

Odette Ntambara, Director of Advocacy, Campaigns, Communication, and Media Manager – Sudan Odette.Ntambara@savethechildren.org

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