UN condemns mass atrocities, attacks on healthcare in Sudan as violence worsens in El Fasher
This follows reports of mass killings, attacks on healthcare facilities, and a worsening humanitarian crisis in and around the city of El Fasher.
In a statement released on Wednesday, UN agencies expressed deep alarm over reports that 460 patients and their companions were killed at the Saudi Maternity Hospital in El Fasher amid renewed violence by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
World Health Organisation (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the organisation was “appalled and deeply shocked” by the attack, calling for the immediate protection of health workers and civilians. “All attacks on healthcare must stop immediately and unconditionally,” he said.
According to WHO, there have been 285 verified attacks on healthcare facilities since the conflict erupted in April, 2023, resulting in at least 1 204 deaths and over 400 injuries among medical staff and patients.
The UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that tens of thousands of civilians have fled El Fasher following the RSF takeover, many seeking refuge in Tawila, about 60 kilometres away.
“No child is safe,” she said, noting that an estimated 130 000 children in the city are at risk of abduction, killing, maiming and sexual violence. UNICEF called for an immediate ceasefire, safe humanitarian access and accountability for those responsible for abuses.
Many have arrived dehydrated, injured and traumatised,” OCHA said, adding that aid teams are providing life-saving assistance despite dangerous conditions. The UN childrens’ fund (UNICEF) Executive Director Catherine Russell warned that children in El Fasher face extreme risks as the violence escalates.
Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross confirmed the killing of five local volunteers in Bara, North Kordofan State, condemning the act as “horrific and senseless.”
The UN reiterated its call for an end to hostilities, protection of civilians and full respect for international humanitarian law as the crisis in Sudan deepens.
