In brief
In the face of relentless bombardment in el-Fasher, Sudan, medical staff at the last operational hospital perform critical surgeries under life-threatening conditions, showcasing their unwavering dedication to saving lives amidst a humanitarian crisis.
Mudathir Ibrahim SuleimanDr. Mustafa Ali Abdulrahman Ibo and his courageous team of medics are performing surgeries at the last hospital operational in el-Fasher, Sudan, amid a backdrop of relentless bombardment. El-Fasher has been under siege for the past nine months, and the situation has escalated intensely over the last month, resulting in 28 deaths and over 50 injuries among medical staff and patients. Dr. Ibo, who has lived in el-Fasher for over a decade, spoke about the dire risks they face, stating that their hospital has been increasingly targeted, making attacks a part of their daily existence.One of the most harrowing experiences occurred when medics were in the middle of an emergency caesarean section as shells began to fall around them. Dr. Ibo recounted the moments of sheer terror, where debris damaged essential equipment, leaving them in complete darkness. Remarkably, the surgical team resorted to using their cellphone torches to complete the daunting two-hour operation in a room that was filled with dust and shrapnel.Dr. Khatab Mohammed, who led the surgery, described the deteriorating conditions as "dire" and emphasized the need to maintain sterile environments while ensuring the safety of both the mother and her newborn. They successfully delivered the baby and later took a photograph to commemorate their survival, fearing it might be their last.Since the outbreak of Sudan's civil conflict in April 2023, which pits the army against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), these medics have chosen to remain, confronting the world's most significant humanitarian crisis that has forced over 12 million people from their homes. Within this chaotic backdrop, el-Fasher remains under army control as RSF forces seek to assert dominance while conducting widespread aggression against non-Arab communities.The RSF’s relentless assault has decimated other hospitals, forcing them to shut their doors. The Saudi Hospital is now the sole medical facility in North Darfur with surgical capabilities but is operating under severe medical supply shortages and overwhelming pressure. Mudathir Ibrahim Suleiman, the hospital's director, highlighted the heartbreak and desperation faced by pregnant women and children, exacerbated by conditions that violate all humanitarian laws.The surrounding area has plunged into grave insecurity and hunger, causing about half of el-Fasher’s original population to flee to the nearby Zamzam camp, where conditions are dire. Despite the overwhelming challenges, the medical team remains determined to provide care; even MSF ambulances arriving to help face ambush and violence.The humanitarian community warns that one of the most severe maternal and child health emergencies is unfolding, exacerbated by airstrikes and ongoing conflict. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for an immediate halt to attacks on health facilities.Dr. Mohammed reiterated his team’s commitment to the people of el-Fasher despite constant threats, asserting that they will continue to save lives wherever possible, even underground. Amidst the chaos, communications over social media maintain their resolve. "We pray for peace," Dr. Ibo said, expressing a collective desire among the team to keep fighting for the people they serve. Additional reporting was contributed by Sudanese journalist Mohammed Zakaria.
