In brief
Five members of a United Nations humanitarian convoy were killed and several others injured during an attack in North Darfur while en route to aid civilians suffering from war-related famine in Sudan.
On June 4, 2025, reports emerged that a convoy of 15 trucks, aimed at delivering vital aid to El Fasher, was targeted in an incident that involved arson and violence. The convoy was the first attempt by U.N. agencies, including the World Food Program and UNICEF, to reach El Fasher in over a year, after the area faced intense conflict. According to U.N. officials, the trucks were transporting approximately 1,100 tons of supplies intended for 100,000 people in need.The tragedy unfolded late Monday after the convoy had traveled 1,100 miles from Port Sudan and had to halt in the market town of El Koma, a location known for being a stronghold of the Rebel Rapid Support Forces (R.S.F.). The U.N. stated that details of their route were shared beforehand in hopes of securing safe passage and delivery of goods. The attack not only killed five aid workers, but also resulted in significant destruction of aid materials.This event draws attention to the escalating challenges faced by humanitarian agencies amid ongoing conflict, which the U.N. claims has already resulted in the displacement of over 13 million people throughout Sudan. Last week, the U.N. expressed concerns after an R.S.F. shelling targeted one of their warehouses in El Fasher. Further escalation was noted when local news reported airstrikes conducted by Sudanese armed forces on El Koma, leading to multiple casualties.UNICEF confirmed that despite the attack, two of their trucks carrying nutritional supplies for severely malnourished children remained unharmed and will be redirected to provide assistance in the surrounding areas. "This incident only strengthens our determination to stay and deliver aid," emphasized Eva Hinds, a UNICEF spokesperson.
