The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strongly condemned a recent drone attack targeting a Saudi maternity hospital in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state, Sudan. The attack, allegedly carried out by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF), struck the hospital’s emergency room, leading to the tragic loss of over 70 lives, including patients receiving treatment at the facility.
The UAE described the incident as a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and called for immediate global action to ensure the protection of healthcare institutions in conflict zones. Sheikh Shahbut bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, a cabinet member of the UAE government, reaffirmed the nation’s stance on safeguarding civilian lives and critical infrastructure during armed conflicts.
In an official statement, Sheikh Shahbut stressed, “The UAE condemns this heinous attack and reiterates the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Sudan. We call for an immediate ceasefire, protecting civilians, and safeguarding essential institutions, particularly medical centers and healthcare workers on the front lines of saving lives.”
The attack has sparked widespread outrage among international organizations and humanitarian agencies. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Sudan issued a statement denouncing the repeated targeting of El Fasher Maternity Hospital. “The continued attacks on this critical facility, including the recent drone strike, are a clear and unacceptable violation of international humanitarian law. Medical facilities and their staff must be protected under all circumstances,” the statement read.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a violent conflict between the RSF, led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, and the Sudanese Armed Forces, resulting in a devastating humanitarian crisis. The ongoing hostilities have crippled the nation’s healthcare system, with reports of hospitals being shelled, medical personnel fleeing for safety, and essential supplies running out.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has warned that the prolonged fighting could lead to catastrophic outcomes, including widespread disease outbreaks due to the collapse of healthcare infrastructure. Humanitarian organizations operating in Sudan have repeatedly called for unobstructed access to provide medical assistance to affected communities.
While the UAE has consistently advocated for peace in Sudan, tensions persist as Sudanese officials have accused Abu Dhabi of providing support to the RSF rebels. However, the UAE has firmly denied these allegations, maintaining that its focus remains on promoting stability and alleviating the suffering of the Sudanese people.
The attack on El Fasher Maternity Hospital is one of many incidents highlighting the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire of the ongoing conflict. International observers have noted that violations of international humanitarian law, including attacks on medical facilities, constitute grave breaches that demand accountability.
Sudan’s Ambassador to Russia, Mohamed Siraj, recently expressed cautious optimism regarding the conflict, stating that there is hope for a resolution in 2025. However, experts warn that without sustained international pressure and robust peacebuilding efforts, the humanitarian toll will continue to escalate.
The UAE reiterated its commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a durable peace in Sudan, emphasizing the need for collaborative action from the global community to prevent further tragedies and protect vulnerable populations.
