Healthcare facilities in Sudan's Darfur region faced systematic destruction during a long siege and subsequent takeover, according to an investigation by the BBC. The findings, which focus on the city of el-Fasher a year after the events, have drawn strong concern from international officials.

According to the BBC, their investigation uncovered evidence that Sudanese paramilitary fighters systematically targeted el-Fasher's healthcare system. Under international law, attacking health facilities or their staff during conflict is illegal, a point underscored by UN human rights chief Volker Türk, who called the findings "deeply disturbing" as reported by the BBC. The BBC's Africa correspondent Barbara Plett Usher spoke to two doctors who supported the claims of systemic targeting.

Meanwhile, Dr Alaa Eldin Nugud, the health minister of the group's civilian-affiliated government, dismissed the allegations as propaganda, according to the BBC.

Background

The events center on el-Fasher in Darfur, where paramilitary fighters maintained a long siege leading up to a takeover of the city a year ago. During this period, according to the BBC investigation, the local healthcare system was targeted, drawing scrutiny from human rights monitors and international observers regarding the protection of medical infrastructure in conflict zones.

Why it matters

For readers observing international conflicts from Pakistan, reports regarding the protection of medical staff and health facilities highlight ongoing global concerns over adherence to international humanitarian law during armed conflicts.