SUDAN | TUNGARU PRESS | October 25, 2026
A BBC investigation has uncovered evidence suggesting that Sudanese paramilitary fighters deliberately targeted and destroyed healthcare facilities in el-Fasher, a major city in the country's war-torn Darfur region.
The reported attacks occurred during a prolonged siege and the subsequent capture of the city approximately a year ago, leaving its already struggling healthcare system severely damaged.
According to the investigation, hospitals and medical services were allegedly subjected to systematic destruction, raising serious concerns about violations of international humanitarian law.
United Nations Expresses Serious Concern
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed alarm over the investigation's findings, describing the reported evidence as deeply troubling.
Under international humanitarian law, hospitals, healthcare facilities and medical personnel are protected during armed conflicts. Deliberately attacking protected medical services can constitute a war crime.
The findings have renewed concerns about the safety of healthcare workers and civilians caught in Sudan's ongoing conflict.
Doctors Describe Alleged Attacks on Medical Facilities
As part of the BBC investigation, Africa correspondent Barbara Plett Usher interviewed two doctors who provided accounts supporting allegations that healthcare facilities in el-Fasher had been systematically targeted.
Their testimonies contributed to the investigation's findings concerning the destruction of medical infrastructure during the fighting.
The reported attacks raise questions about the ability of hospitals and medical professionals to provide essential treatment to civilians in conflict-affected areas.
Allegations Rejected by Paramilitary-Linked Administration
The allegations have been rejected by representatives of the civilian administration affiliated with the paramilitary group.
Dr Alaa Eldin Nugud, the administration's health minister, dismissed the investigation's claims, describing them as propaganda.
The conflicting accounts highlight the importance of independent investigations into alleged violations of international humanitarian law.
Growing Concerns Over Healthcare in Conflict Zones
The destruction of hospitals and other medical facilities can have devastating consequences for communities already affected by armed conflict.
When healthcare services are disrupted, civilians may struggle to access emergency treatment, essential medicines and other lifesaving medical assistance.
The BBC's findings have drawn attention to the vulnerability of medical infrastructure in Sudan and the need to protect healthcare workers and patients during military operations.
The investigation also raises broader concerns about accountability for alleged attacks on protected civilian facilities.
As Sudan continues to face a severe humanitarian crisis, the reported destruction of el-Fasher's healthcare system underscores the urgent importance of safeguarding medical services and ensuring that allegations of unlawful attacks are thoroughly investigated.
Original reporting: Barbara Plett Usher, BBC News, Africa Correspondent.
Source: BBC News
Adapted and rewritten for Tungaru Press
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