Sudan: El-Fasher's Hospitals Systematically Destroyed

A BBC investigation has uncovered evidence that Sudanese paramilitary fighters systematically destroyed the healthcare system in El-Fasher, Darfur, during their siege and takeover of the city approximately a year ago, relative to the current date.

Evidence compiled from sources on the ground details at least 43 separate attacks on hospitals and healthcare sites between May 2024 and October 2025, with some facilities targeted multiple times. These actions are considered serious violations of international humanitarian law and may constitute war crimes.

The toll on medical workers has been severe. Between April 2023 and October 2025, 120 medical workers were injured, 55 were killed, and 10 were forcibly disappeared or abducted. One surgeon described the attacks as deliberate and planned, aimed at rendering the health system inoperable.

While both sides in Sudan's civil war have been accused of attacks on health facilities, events in El-Fasher are highlighted as a clear example of the conflict's severe impact on healthcare. The investigation reveals a detailed chronology of attacks, including shelling of the South Hospital in late May and early June 2024.

Medical facilities, including the Teaching Hospital and South Hospital, faced repeated shelling and raids. In one incident on June 8, 2024, hospital staff were forced to flee as fighters entered the building. The Saudi Maternity Hospital, which became the last functioning facility, was also repeatedly struck.

Despite allegations from the RSF-backed health minister that hospitals were used as military bases, the BBC found no independent evidence to support these claims. As of the current date, healthcare in El-Fasher is managed by the RSF-backed government, with some hospitals reportedly reopened.