Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council condemned a drone strike on a Saudi hospital in El Fasher, North Darfur, that killed over 70. They labeled the attack a violation of international law and stressed the necessity for protected humanitarian operations. The ongoing conflict in Sudan has resulted in a profound humanitarian crisis, with significant casualties and displacement.
On Sunday, Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) condemned a drone strike on a Saudi hospital in El Fasher, North Darfur, that resulted in over 70 fatalities. This attack, attributed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), was described as a violation of international and humanitarian law by the Saudi Foreign Ministry, which called for the protection of healthcare and humanitarian personnel in conflict zones. The ministry urged restraint among all parties to safeguard civilians and reminded them of their duties as per the Jeddah Declaration signed in April 2023.
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi characterized the airstrike on the hospital as a serious infringement of international laws that necessitate the protection of civilians and medical facilities in war-stricken areas. He emphasized the need for ensuring that healthcare workers can fulfill their humanitarian roles amid the dire circumstances facing the Sudanese populace. Albudaiwi also highlighted the importance of accountability for those responsible for such acts, which endanger innocent lives and impede humanitarian aid efforts.
El Fasher remains a vital center for humanitarian assistance across Darfur and has experienced heightened conflict since early May. A protracted struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, ignited in April 2023, has resulted in an estimated 20,000 deaths and displaced approximately 14 million people, according to both the United Nations and local authorities. Research from American universities estimates the death toll may reach around 130,000. Concerns about an escalating humanitarian crisis continue, with millions facing potential famine and death due to severe food shortages amid the ongoing violence in Sudan.
The recent attack on a Saudi hospital in Sudan’s Darfur region underscores the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces. Since April 2023, this conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions, exacerbating the humanitarian situation in the region. The international community has issued warnings regarding the adverse impacts on civilians and humanitarian operations. The GCC and Saudi Arabia’s response highlights their commitment to upholding international laws that protect medical and humanitarian efforts, amidst a backdrop of a significant humanitarian catastrophe affecting millions.
The drone attack on the Saudi hospital in El Fasher has elicited widespread condemnation from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The incident exemplifies the stark violations of international humanitarian principles that threaten civilian lives and impede essential medical services in conflict areas. An urgent call for protection and accountability was made to ensure the safety of health workers and civilians as the humanitarian crisis in Sudan intensifies, demanding immediate international attention.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
