UN agencies say Sudan healthcare attacks have killed over 2,000 since 2023

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KHARTOUM — At least 2,042 people have been killed and 785 injured in 214 attacks on health care facilities in Sudan since the conflict began nearly three years ago, two UN agencies said Saturday.

In a joint statement, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) said 184 deaths and 295 injuries occurred in the first quarter of this year alone, expressing concern over the growing scale and frequency of such attacks in conflict-affected areas.

"These attacks further restrict access to health care at a time when it is needed most," said WHO Representative to Sudan Shible Sahbani, who called for the protection of patients and health workers.

UNICEF Representative Sheldon Yett said attacks on hospitals "are a grave violation of children's rights," adding that they deprive children of critical services and protection during vulnerable moments.

The agencies said attacks on health facilities, staff, and patients violate international humanitarian law and deepen an already severe humanitarian crisis. They called on all parties to respect and protect health care, ensure the safety of civilians and aid workers, and allow sustained access to essential services.

Fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces since mid-April 2023 has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions, according to international organisations.