Hanan Balkhi expresses concern over repeated attacks on the health sector in Sudan.

May 31, 2025 (PEN) Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa, expressed deep concern about the ongoing attacks on the health care sector in Sudan, amid escalating violence that threatens civilians and vital facilities.

"We are deeply concerned about the ongoing attacks on the healthcare sector in Sudan," Balkhi said. "Yesterday morning, the Daman International Hospital in El Obeid was attacked, reportedly killing six medical staff, injuring several others, and causing damage to infrastructure."

She stressed that health facilities, medical personnel, and humanitarian operations must be respected and protected under international humanitarian law, adding, "Acts of violence against health facilities, humanitarian operations, civilians, and vital infrastructure must stop immediately."