US watchdog voices concern as over 150 churches attacked since Sudan war began

By Anugrah Kumar - Posted at The Christian Post:

Published April 21, 2024

Since the war in Sudan began last April, over 150 churches have been damaged or destroyed, according to a report by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom.

The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has claimed thousands of lives and devastated religious communities, with U.S. watchdogs warning that religious sites are being targeted, leaving a trail of destruction.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 13,000 estimated deaths, with armed combatants targeting houses of worship and other religious sites, according to USCIRF.

In a statement, Commissioner Mohamed Magid said, “International humanitarian law deems houses of worship and religious sites as sacrosanct, even during armed conflict. Despite Article 53 protections, houses of worship and religious sites continue to be impermissibly damaged and destroyed in Sudan.”

The commissioner also raised concerns about attacks on religious leaders and the impact of the conflict on religious minorities.

Continue here.