In brief
The BBC’s probe uncovered evidence that paramilitary troops systematically destroyed the health infrastructure in El‑Falash, Darfur, during a year‑long siege. International law forbids attacks on medical facilities, a stance echoed by UN human rights chief Volker Türk. Sudan’s paramilitary‑affiliated government, through Health Minister Dr Alaa Eldin Nugud, dismissed the allegations as propaganda. Two doctors testify that hospitals were repeatedly targeted, jeopardising civilian life. The investigation underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Sudan’s conflict zones.
During a severe siege that lasted a year, paramilitary fighters in Sudan’s El‑Falsh region carried out a systematic campaign against the city’s health facilities. The BBC’s investigation into the conflict reveals the deliberate targetting of hospitals, ambulances and medical staff, an act that violates international humanitarian law. UN human rights chief Volker Türk described the findings as “deeply disturbing.”
Dr Alaa Eldin Nugud, a health minister affiliated with the paramilitary group’s civilian government, dismissed the accusations as “propaganda.” Yet, two local doctors stand forward to confirm the pattern of aggression, noting that the destruction of medical infrastructure has cost countless lives.
According to the BBC, the attacks were not random acts of violence but part of a broader strategy to cripple the city’s ability to provide care during the siege. The findings add to the mounting evidence that “extra‑ordinary” measures against civilians are being employed in Sudan’s ongoing internal conflict.
For a deeper dive into the BBC’s research on the systematic targeting of hospitals, see BBC’s full investigation.
Section: Africa • Published: 24 minutes ago
