In a devastating escalation of violence in Sudan, a horrific massacre has occurred at the Saudi Maternity Hospital in el-Fasher, where hundreds have reportedly been killed, and doctors have been kidnapped. This facility had been the last operational hospital in the city, tirelessly serving the sick and injured amid dire conditions marked by ongoing shelling, power outages, and a dire shortage of medical supplies.
Dr. Mohamed Faisal Elsheikh, a Sudanese doctor now based in Manchester and spokesperson for the Sudan Doctors Network, praised the medical staff’s unwavering dedication, stating, “They are heroes, honestly.” Their efforts to save lives amid chaos and humanitarian crisis exemplified their commitment despite the insurmountable challenges they faced. Tragically, the situation took a fatal turn after the city fell to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on October 29, leading to reports that six health workers, including four doctors, a nurse, and a pharmacist, were abducted from the hospital.
Official statements from the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that on the same day, over 460 patients and their companions were shot and killed within the hospital’s walls. WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his horror at this attack, emphasizing the need for international protection for healthcare facilities and workers. Since the conflict erupted in April 2023, the WHO has documented 185 attacks on healthcare, resulting in 1,204 deaths and 416 injuries among health workers and patients.
In response to the ongoing violence, videos purportedly showing RSF fighters in the aftermath of the attack have surfaced, capturing the tragic brutality and chaos left in the wake of the massacre. RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has promised to look into these allegations of war crimes; however, skepticism prevails due to a history of unaddressed atrocities under his command.
The situation has deteriorated significantly in el-Fasher, with long-standing blockades leading to starvation among an estimated 250,000 civilians. The UN’s migration agency reported that 26,000 people have fled the city, many seeking refuge in Tawila, where aid organizations like Doctors Without Borders are struggling to address dire health conditions. They warned of alarming malnutrition rates among women and children indicative of impending famine.
Survivors of the violence have recounted harrowing experiences. One mother described the need to conceal her children during attacks and resorting to animal feed for sustenance. Another woman detailed the dangers of their escape, reporting loss of life, violence, and treachery along the way.
As the UN Security Council addresses this escalating crisis, humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher warned that the prevailing global reaction has shifted from direct condemnation to a troubling sense of resignation, drawing a parallel to past genocides in Darfur. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for international action and support for the besieged population suffering through an increasingly dire humanitarian crisis.