The attack on a Saudi hospital in El Fasher, North Darfur State, Sudan, attributed to the rebel Rapid Support Forces, tragically killed over 70 people and devastated the only functioning hospital in the state capital, according to Governor Mini Arko Minawi.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry denounced the attack as a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law, reiterating the kingdom's unwavering rejection of such actions.
The ministry stressed the vital need to protect healthcare and humanitarian workers, urging restraint to prevent further civilian casualties. It also reminded all parties of their obligations under the Jeddah Declaration, signed by the Sudanese army and the rebel RSF in April 2023, to safeguard civilians.
Jasem Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), echoed the condemnation, calling the attack a grave breach of international laws, treaties, and UN resolutions that mandate the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, particularly healthcare facilities.
He demanded "full protection for medical personnel and healthcare facilities in Sudan, enabling them to carry out their humanitarian duties to the fullest extent, especially in light of the harsh circumstances faced by the brotherly Sudanese people."
El Fasher, a crucial hub for humanitarian operations across Darfur's five states, has become a focal point of RSF attacks since May 10, 2024, despite international warnings.
Control of El Fasher and the broader North Darfur region is strategically significant for the RSF, with fears that an RSF victory could trigger further ethnic violence, similar to the alleged ethnic cleansing carried out by the RSF in West Darfur last year.