The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have reportedly converted a significant section of Al-Nuhud Hospital in West Kordofan, Sudan, into a military command center and barracks, as indicated by the Sudan Doctors Network. This development has raised concerns due to the hospital’s critical role in delivering healthcare to a population already grappling with the ramifications of a prolonged civil conflict.
The NGO stated that since the RSF’s takeover of Al-Nuhud more than five months ago, the hospital has been hindered from executing its fundamental duty of providing essential medical services to the community. The military’s presence in the facility represents a serious infringement on the sanctity of medical institutions, undermining civilians’ rights to access necessary treatment. Furthermore, the organization pointed out that some healthcare workers have reportedly faced allegations of collaborating with military authorities before deciding to leave the city, compounding the existing challenges faced by those still committed to providing care.
Consequently, the hospital is experiencing a critical shortage of healthcare personnel, severely restricting its capacity to meet the health needs of patients. The ongoing conflict between the RSF and the government-aligned Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) has persisted since April 2023, with mediation efforts by both regional and international actors struggling to bring about a resolution.
The humanitarian situation in Sudan has reached alarming levels, with the United Nations characterizing it as one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises. As the conflict escalates, numerous children have been displaced. Reports from the Norwegian Refugee Council indicate that significant numbers of unaccompanied minors have arrived in Tawila, having fled the turmoil following the RSF’s control of the city of el-Fasher. The capital of North Darfur, el-Fasher, underwent an 18-month siege that left residents deprived of essential supplies, including food and medicine.
In parallel to the ongoing conflict, recent discussions have surfaced around a ceasefire proposal suggested by the United States, although as of now, neither the RSF nor the SAF has formally accepted the initiative. The RSF declared a unilateral cessation of hostilities aligned with U.S. encouragement, while the SAF responded by asserting its military positions in the region.
As these efforts continue, there remains a significant hope for sustainable peace in Sudan. The backing of international figures, including the appeal from Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman for intervention, highlights a shared global interest in fostering stability and peace in the country.
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