The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warned today (Saturday) of the increasing attacks on healthcare facilities, depriving communities of life-saving care.
In a joint statement, they noted that “attacks on healthcare facilities, their staff, and patients constitute a blatant violation of international humanitarian law, as they deprive children and communities of essential, life-saving care and further worsen the humanitarian crisis.”
The statement called on all parties to the conflict to respect and protect healthcare at all times, ensure the safety of civilians and humanitarian workers, and facilitate sustained and unhindered access to essential services for children and their families.
The WHO Representative in Sudan, Shibl Sahbani, said that “these attacks further restrict access to healthcare at a time when it is most needed.”
He added: “We are deeply saddened by the deaths, injuries, and damage to healthcare facilities resulting from the continued attacks on the health sector in Sudan, despite repeated calls for its protection.”
