The Bombing of the Hospital in Surdulica

On 31 May 1999, NATO bombed the health center in Surdulica, a small town in southern Serbia, in one of the most severe attacks on civilian facilities.

Targeting the Hospital

Cluster bombs struck:

• The health center (hospital)
• The gerontological center (a home for the elderly)
• Nearby residential buildings

Victims

20 civilians were killed:

• 8 patients who were in the hospital
• 3 members of the medical staff (doctors and nurses)
• 5 people from the home for the elderly
• 4 civilians from the nearby residential buildings

Violation of the Geneva Convention

The bombing of hospitals is explicitly prohibited under international law. The building was clearly marked with a red cross.

No Apology

NATO never provided a satisfactory explanation for this attack. A spokesperson merely said they were "investigating the incident".

Remembrance

A commemoration for the victims is held every year. A memorial plaque with the names of the victims has been placed on the reconstructed hospital.