In a tragic escalation of violence in Sudan, over 40 individuals, including children and medical personnel, lost their lives in a horrific attack on Al-Mujlad Hospital, reported Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization (WHO). He emphatically stated on X that "attacks on health must stop everywhere," following this unconscionable event that has drawn severe international condemnation.
The devastating assault occurred on Saturday in West Kordofan, a region heavily embroiled in conflict as rival factions have been battling for control. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are alleging that the Sudanese army is responsible for targeting the hospital; however, the army has yet to respond to these accusations.
Since the onset of Sudan's civil war in April 2023, the UN has classified the situation as the worst humanitarian crisis globally, marked by widespread atrocities, including mass killings and severe displacement of millions. Reports from BBC News Arabic highlight claims of war crimes committed against medical facilities by both warring sides.
Al-Mujlad Hospital, the sole operating health facility in the region, offered critical services such as dialysis and civilian care, according to the Sudan Doctors Network. Among the deceased were six children and five healthcare workers, with dozens more injured, as per WHO's Sudan office.
The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) are blamed for this tragic incident, as allegations arise that the attack aimed at eliminating RSF operatives believed to be sheltered within the hospital. The RSF has not issued any remarks regarding these claims.
As humanitarian needs soar, UNICEF's chief, Catherine Russell, has highlighted a "worsening crisis" for children caught in the turmoil. The aid response is critically underfunded, lacking two-thirds of the required financial resources to assist those affected, particularly vulnerable children who face chronic malnutrition, exploitation, and disease.
Among the most devastating accounts emerging from this conflict are reports of sexual violence against children as young as one year old. The ongoing war's psychological toll is manifesting in alarming ways, with some children resorting to self-harm and suicide attempts.
