At least two children were killed and several others injured on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, following a drone strike on a school in North Kordofan, Sudan. The attack has been widely condemned by local authorities, humanitarian organisations, and the international community, highlighting the escalating violence in the ongoing conflict between Sudanese government forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Witnesses reported that the strike struck Al‑Noor School in the town of El Obeid, a densely populated area that has previously been affected by clashes between rival factions. The victims were reportedly students attending classes at the time, while several teachers and nearby residents also suffered injuries. Emergency services rushed the injured to local hospitals, where doctors are providing urgent medical care.
Details of the attack
Authorities in North Kordofan described the incident as a drone strike carried out by RSF forces, though the paramilitary group has yet to officially comment. Preliminary reports indicate that the attack targeted the school deliberately, raising serious concerns about violations of international humanitarian law.
Local residents described scenes of panic and chaos. Parents who had sent their children to school found themselves grappling with the reality that civilians, including children, were directly in the line of fire. Witnesses recounted the sounds of explosions and the sight of smoke rising from the school compound, with students running for cover as emergency responders arrived
Humanitarian and political implications
Humanitarian organisations have expressed alarm over the escalation of violence in areas previously considered relatively safe. The United Nations and other aid agencies have repeatedly warned that attacks on schools and hospitals violate international law and endanger children, who are among the most vulnerable in conflict zones.
Local education authorities have temporarily closed schools in the area to ensure the safety of students and staff, while efforts are underway to assess the full extent of casualties and structural damage. Psychologists and aid workers have also begun providing trauma counselling to affected families, recognising the long-term psychological impact of such attacks on children.
http://dramatically increased the risk to non-combatantsThe strike comes amid a broader campaign of drone attacks and ground clashes across Sudan, particularly in North and South Kordofan, Darfur, and the capital, Khartoum. Analysts warn that the use of drones by paramilitary forces in urban and civilian areas has dramatically increased the risk to non-combatants, particularly in densely populated towns.
Public reaction
The attack has sparked outrage on social media and in local communities. Citizens expressed frustration over the continuing conflict, the apparent targeting of schools, and the lack of accountability for perpetrators. Hashtags calling for justice for the victims and an end to attacks on civilians have circulated widely online.
Several prominent Sudanese activists and politicians condemned the attack as unacceptable and inhumane, calling on the international community to intervene and ensure protection for children and schools. Human rights organisations have urged the Sudanese government to take all necessary measures to prevent further civilian casualties and to investigate violations of international law
International response
The international community, including the United Nations, has issued statements of concern over the incident, emphasizing that attacks on educational institutions constitute serious violations of international law. Diplomats and humanitarian leaders have called for an immediate ceasefire, protection of civilians, and unrestricted access for humanitarian assistance in conflict-affected areas.
Observers note that the continued escalation of drone strikes and paramilitary operations could further destabilise Sudan, which has already been struggling with political turmoil, economic hardship, and displacement crises. Aid agencies are warning that more civilians, particularly children, may be at risk if violence continues unchecked.
Education and civilian protection at risk
Education officials have expressed concern that attacks on schools may have long-term consequences for children in conflict zones. Many families may now hesitate to send their children to school, fearing further attacks. Local authorities are exploring alternative educational arrangements, including temporary learning spaces and online education where feasible, but resources remain limited.
Humanitarian experts emphasise the need for both immediate protective measures and long-term solutions that prioritise the safety and well-being of children, ensuring that education can continue even amid ongoing conflict.
Looking ahead
As investigations continue, local authorities and international observers are monitoring the situation closely. Efforts are being made to provide emergency medical care, psychosocial support, and security to prevent further civilian casualties. The drone strike highlights the urgent need for diplomacy, conflict resolution, and humanitarian access in Sudan, where children and civilians remain highly vulnerable in the current conflict. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder that in ongoing conflicts, schools, hospitals, and other civilian infrastructure must be safeguarded, and perpetrators held accountable for violations of international law
