The denial of medical care for those from opposition-controlled areas was "a distinct and chilling reality" of the war in Syria, the International Commission of Inquiry on Syria said in a report Friday.

"Evidence collected by the commission leads to an overwhelming conclusion: government forces deny medical care to those from opposition-controlled and affiliated areas as a matter of policy. The policy is implemented through attacks on medical units, by endangering hospitals, targeting medical personnel, and interfering with patients receiving treatment," the commission said.

It found Syrian government forces and affiliated militias interfered with medical care for strategic and military aims.

It also said there was evidence some anti-government armed groups had attacked hospitals in certain areas.

"By rejecting the irrefutable and universally accepted principle that those wounded in hostilities must be treated, the parties to the conflict in Syria are setting a dangerous precedent," it said.

The report will be presented to the Human Rights Council's 24th session on Sept. 16. Endi