In a shocking revelation, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, condemned an "appalling" attack on a hospital in Sudan that has led to the deaths of over 40 individuals, many of whom were children and medical staff. This incident took place at Al-Mujlad Hospital, situated in West Kordofan state, an area heavily affected by conflict as Sudan enters its third year of war.

Ghebreyesus emphasized the need for immediate cessation of attacks on healthcare facilities, stating, "We cannot say this louder." The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have accused the Sudanese army of conducting the assault, as supported by several civil society organizations. However, the army has not yet issued a response to these claims.

Since Sudan's civil war erupted in April 2023, the humanitarian situation has deteriorated dramatically, earning the UN's designation as the world's most severe crisis. Thousands of civilians have lost their lives, with millions displaced, while both sides of the conflict have faced allegations of war crimes, particularly concerning attacks on medical establishments.

Al-Mujlad Hospital was reportedly the only operative medical facility in the region. According to the Sudan Doctors Network, among the fatalities were six children and five healthcare workers. Dozens more were injured, raising alarms about the impact on local healthcare.

This facility was critical, housing a dialysis unit and focusing on civilian care, in stark contrast to the military's objectives. The Emergency Lawyers group suggests that the assault aimed to target RSF fighters who had taken shelter there, yet both the RSF and the army have yet to comment publicly on this allegation.

Catherine Russell, head of the UN children's agency, UNICEF, warned of an escalating crisis for children affected by the conflict. She noted the severe lack of funding for humanitarian aid, with two-thirds of necessary resources missing. In her visit to refugees in Chad, Russell highlighted the plight of vulnerable children who suffer from malnutrition and are at risk of exploitation and disease.

Reports emerging from Sudan detail harrowing instances of violence, including sexual assaults on children and instances of self-harm among the youth due to the overwhelming trauma. As the situation unfolds, the international community continues to seek solutions to alleviate the suffering caused by this devastating conflict.