In brief
In Sudan's el-Fasher, medical professionals battle against the odds as they operate in the last functioning hospital under siege, accomplishing numerous surgical procedures despite facing dire challenges.
Mudathir Ibrahim SuleimanDr. Mustafa Ali Abdulrahman Ibo and his colleagues showcase unwavering bravery, conducting surgeries amidst relentless bombardment at the Saudi Hospital, the last standing medical facility in el-Fasher amidst a 9-month siege due to Sudan's ongoing civil conflict. This month, the hospital has tragically recorded 28 casualties and over 50 injuries, marking the peak toll since the siege began. Dr. Ibo, who has called el-Fasher home since 2011, shared with the BBC, "Continuous attacks targeting Saudi Hospital have become part of our daily lives".A particularly terrifying moment arose when medics attempted an emergency caesarean. Dr. Ibo detailed the harrowing experience: "The first shell struck our hospital wall; soon after, another exploded in the maternity operating room, causing power cuts and leaving us in total darkness." The surgical team, relying on the flashlight from their phones, managed to complete the operation despite rubble and dust engulfing the room. Dr. Khatab Mohammed, a key member of the surgical team, remarked, "The environment was no longer sterile. We had to prioritize safety in the midst of chaos."Once the baby was safely delivered, the doctors posed for a photo, which they felt might be their last: "I thought it might be our last photo," Dr. Mohammed recalled, fearing the worst from impending shelling. The occasion, however, marked their resolve and unity through adversity, as they continued with two more life-saving surgeries that day.These dedicated medical professionals, most of whom are alumni from the University of el-Fasher, have chosen to remain since the civil war erupted in April 2023. The conflict has created a humanitarian crisis, displacing over 12 million people. The ongoing military confrontation between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has not only devastated the health infrastructure but also resulted in grave human rights violations.Saudi Hospital, previously supported by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), now serves as the only medical facility with surgical capabilities in North Darfur, yet it faces grave shortages. Director Mudathir Ibrahim Suleiman described the heartbreaking situation of treating patients amid bombardment: “Pregnant women, children, and staff are constantly shaken and injured, often pulled from the rubble.”With only one hospital operational in a city where others have shuttered under violence, medical professionals are driven by compassion. “All ordinary aspects of life have vanished here,” Dr. Suleiman said, lamenting the extensive displacement of the population. Many families have taken refuge in nearby camps, where conditions remain dire, exacerbated by frequent attacks on ambulances providing critical services.Despite the constant threat, the medics endure, fueled by their commitment to the people of el-Fasher. Dr. Mohammed acknowledged his team’s perseverance in their mission: “Our souls refuse to flee from this city; we will keep fighting for those who need us most.”International agencies have raised alarms about deteriorating health conditions, especially for mothers and children, urging adherence to humanitarian principles. The World Health Organization has called for immediate protection of medical facilities, highlighting the need for respect amidst warfare.As the beleaguered staff of Saudi Hospital continues their brave fight against despair, they stand united in hope for peace and safety to return to the war-ravaged region. From makeshift settings or under trees, they remain dedicated to saving lives, even as each day brings new terror to their doorsteps.
