At least 43 people were killed early Friday when a mosque in El-Fasher, the capital of Sudan’s North Darfur state, was struck during prayers, according to a medical group.
The Sudan Doctors’ Network, an independent medical organization, said the attack took place during Fajr (dawn) prayers and accused the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of carrying out the strike. Dozens of others were reported injured.
“The Rapid Support Forces committed a horrific crime in El-Fasher at dawn today, targeting a mosque during Fajr prayers,” the network said in a statement. “This constitutes a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law and a war crime.”
The RSF did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The attack occurred near the Abu Shouk camp for displaced people in the Daraja Oula neighborhood of El-Fasher, according to the United Nations.
Denise Brown, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan, condemned the strike and expressed alarm over the high civilian toll.
“I am gravely alarmed by an attack today that struck a mosque near the Abu Shouk camp … and claimed the lives of dozens of civilians who were worshipping there,” Brown said in a statement. “Intentionally targeting places of worship is a war crime under international law.”
She called for an investigation into the incident and for those responsible to be held accountable.
The RSF has maintained a blockade on El-Fasher since May 10, despite repeated international warnings about the worsening humanitarian situation in the region, which serves as a key hub for relief operations in Darfur.
Sudan has been gripped by civil war since April 2023, when fighting broke out between the Sudanese military and the RSF. The conflict has killed more than 20,000 people and displaced some 15 million, according to the United Nations and local authorities. A separate study by American researchers estimates the death toll may be as high as 130,000.