El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, experienced a devastating attack that led to the suspension of the city’s hospital operations. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) were responsible for the violent assault, targeting patients, staff, and visitors. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported that the RSF raided the hospital, looting money, mobile phones, and even an ambulance. Thankfully, the army and allied armed movements were able to repel the attack after a fierce battle.
Ibrahim Abdallah, the Director General of the Ministry of Health in North Darfur, confirmed that the hospital is no longer operational. Patients and staff were evacuated to safety as the RSF executed patients, kidnapped visitors, and looted crucial resources during the assault. The MSF emergency manager, Michel Lacharite, condemned the attack, stating that firing inside a hospital was a blatant violation of humanitarian norms.
At the time of the attack, only ten patients and a small medical team were present, as the MSF and Ministry of Health had already begun transferring patients to other facilities due to escalating violence. The South Hospital in El Fasher was a vital facility, providing surgical care and serving as the primary center for treating war wounded. Over 1,300 victims were treated in the hospital between May 10 and June 6, highlighting the critical role it played in the community.
Since May 10, El Fasher has been embroiled in intense conflict between the army, allied armed movements, and the RSF. The ongoing violence has resulted in civilian casualties, forced displacement, and significant damage to essential infrastructure. El Fasher remains one of the few towns in Darfur not under RSF control, as the group continues to expand its influence across the region.
The attack on the hospital underscores the dire situation faced by civilians in Darfur and the challenges humanitarian organizations like MSF encounter in providing critical medical care. The need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and the protection of civilians and medical facilities is more pressing than ever. As the community works to rebuild and recover from the recent violence, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents must be a top priority.