In a tragic escalation of violence in Sudan, at least 13 individuals lost their lives following an artillery attack on one of the last operational hospitals in el-Fasher, a city currently besieged. The shelling occurred late on Tuesday night, with reports indicating that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeted the Saudi hospital multiple times, injuring 16 others, including a doctor and a nurse.
Destruction and humanitarian crisis
Images from the scene depict the devastating aftermath of the assault, showing shattered windows, extensive damage from shrapnel, and hospital wards left in ruins. A local medical group condemned the attack, labeling it a war crime.
The RSF has maintained a siege on el-Fasher for over 17 months, severely impacting the civilian population and leading to widespread food shortages. The city, which serves as the last military stronghold in the Darfur region, has become a battleground as the RSF clashes with the national army for dominance.
This recent attack marks the second time this year the Saudi hospital has been targeted; an earlier strike in January resulted in the deaths of three children and injuries to three additional individuals. The latest shelling has further damaged hospital infrastructure, exacerbating the health crisis in the city.
Escalating tensions and humanitarian concerns
The RSF’s offensive in recent weeks has intensified, raising concerns among experts about the potential fall of el-Fasher unless the army receives timely reinforcements. The ongoing conflict has contributed to what has been described as the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands of deaths attributed to the violence.
Recent research indicates that the RSF has concluded the construction of an earthen wall around el-Fasher, reinforcing their siege and further restricting civilian movement. This berm, measuring 57 kilometers (35 miles), effectively seals off all major escape routes. Civilians attempting to flee have reported facing extortion, arbitrary detentions, disappearances, and sexual violence at checkpoints controlled by the RSF.
The relentless fighting has led to the closure of most health facilities in the area, with humanitarian aid convoys unable to reach those in dire need of food and medical assistance. According to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, “After over 500 days of unremitting siege by the RSF and incessant fighting, El Fasher is on the precipice of an even greater catastrophe if urgent measures are not taken [to] loosen the armed vice upon the city and to protect civilians.”