(MENAFN) The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) expressed outrage over a deadly attack on the Saudi Maternity Hospital in El-Fasher, Sudan, in which more than 460 patients and companions were reportedly killed and health workers abducted.

In a statement posted on social media, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the organization is "appalled and deeply shocked" by the incident. He noted that prior to this attack, WHO had confirmed 185 assaults on health care in Sudan since the conflict began in April 2023, resulting in 1,204 deaths and 416 injuries among health workers and patients.

Ghebreyesus added that 49 attacks occurred this year alone, claiming 966 lives. He emphasized, "All attacks on health care must stop immediately and unconditionally," and stressed that "all patients, health personnel and health facilities must be protected under International Humanitarian Law."

He concluded by urging an immediate ceasefire in the conflict to protect civilians and essential medical services.

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