The conflict in Sudan has escalated with a recent attack on Al-Mujlad Hospital, resulting in more than 40 fatalities including child victims and medical staff. WHO Director-General Tedros Ghebreyesus condemned the violence against healthcare facilities, calling for immediate cessation of such acts amidst a humanitarian crisis.
WHO Condemns Deadly Attack on Sudan Hospital as War Continues to Claim Innocent Lives
WHO Condemns Deadly Attack on Sudan Hospital as War Continues to Claim Innocent Lives
The World Health Organization reports a horrific attack on a Sudanese hospital that left over 40 dead, including children and healthcare workers.
The ongoing war in Sudan has reached alarming new heights as the World Health Organization (WHO) reports a devastating attack on Al-Mujlad Hospital, leading to the deaths of over 40 individuals, many of whom were innocent children and healthcare professionals. WHO's Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, took to social media, expressing horror at this latest incident and pleading for an end to attacks on health facilities worldwide.
The deliberately targeted hospital, situated in the conflict-stricken West Kordofan state, was hit on Saturday during fierce fighting between the conflict's opposing factions. Although the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have accused the Sudanese army of being responsible for the assault, the army has yet to issue an official response to these accusations.
With the civil war in Sudan having escalated since it commenced in April 2023, many organizations and the United Nations have classified the situation as the worst humanitarian crisis globally. The scale of civilian suffering has been extensive, including allegations of genocide and widespread displacement. Both warring factions have been linked to war crimes targeting medical facilities and personnel, raising grave concerns about the safety of healthcare in these turbulent times.
Al-Mujlad Hospital was the sole functioning medical facility in its vicinity, providing crucial healthcare services, including dialysis. The Sudan Doctors Network reported that out of the 40-plus individuals killed, six were minors and five were healthcare workers. The Hospital's targeting is presumed to stem from the military's attempts to eliminate RSF fighters allegedly taking refuge within its walls.
The repercussions of Sudan’s ongoing conflict extend well beyond its borders. UNICEF chief Catherine Russell highlighted an exacerbating crisis affecting children, many of whom are malnourished and vulnerable both within Sudan and among refugee populations in neighboring Chad. With essential services lacking and critical funding missing, vulnerable children continue to suffer the consequences of this devastating war, facing additional risks of exploitation and disease.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and emphasizes the global commitment to protecting health services in conflict zones. The voices of international leaders and agencies must unite in demanding an end to violence against civilians and a restoration of safety for all.
