Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) strongly condemned a drone attack on a Saudi hospital in El Fasher, North Darfur, which killed more than 70 people on Saturday.
The attack, reportedly carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, targeted the Saudi Hospital in El Fasher, a critical hub for humanitarian operations in Darfur, according to North Darfur Governor Arcua Minnawi.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry denounced the strike as “a violation of international and humanitarian law,” reaffirming the kingdom’s rejection of such actions. It stressed the need to protect healthcare workers and humanitarian personnel, urging restraint to avoid further civilian casualties. The ministry also reminded all parties in Sudan of their obligations under the Jeddah Declaration, signed in April 2023, which includes commitments to protect civilians.
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi echoed the condemnation, calling the attack a “blatant violation of international laws and treaties” that safeguard civilians and healthcare facilities. He urged for full protection of medical personnel and facilities, emphasizing the critical need to ensure humanitarian workers can fulfill their duties amidst the ongoing conflict.
El Fasher has become a flashpoint for violence since May 2023, despite international appeals to prevent further escalation. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF, which began in April 2023, has resulted in over 20,000 deaths and displaced 14 million people, according to the UN. Other studies suggest the death toll could exceed 130,000.
Humanitarian organizations warn of a worsening crisis, with millions at risk of famine due to severe food shortages as violence continues to spread across 13 of Sudan’s 18 states.