Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces said on Thursday that they reject statements by the head of the World Health Organization regarding alleged attacks on health facilities since January, which were said to have caused more than 1,600 casualties.
In a statement reported by media, the RSF said the information circulating about attacks on healthcare sites is inaccurate and misleading. The group claimed that a significant number of reports originate from entities presenting themselves as part of the health sector but are, according to the RSF, linked to political and security actors, including alleged connections to Islamist networks. It said such links undermine the neutrality and credibility of the reports.
The RSF said it remains committed to protecting health facilities and ensuring the safety of medical staff. It also pointed to what it described as efforts by health authorities in Darfur to maintain and develop healthcare services despite ongoing conflict and severe conditions.
The statement called on the World Health Organization and international partners to adhere to neutrality and objectivity, expand on-the-ground verification, and consult a wider range of actors. The RSF said this approach would better protect civilians and strengthen Sudan’s fragile health system.
