The World Health Organization (WHO) has condemned the reported killing of more than 460 patients and their companions, as well as the abduction of six health workers, at the Saudi Maternity Hospital in El Fasher, Sudan, in late October.
On October 26, the hospital, which is the only partially functioning medical facility in El Fasher, was attacked for the fourth time within a month. This incident resulted in the death of one nurse and injuries to three other health workers, according to the WHO. By October 28, reports indicated that six health workers—including four doctors, a nurse, and a pharmacist—had been abducted, while over 460 patients and their companions were reportedly shot and killed at the facility.
This marks a tragic escalation in the rapidly deteriorating situation in El Fasher, North Darfur, where increasing violence, siege conditions, and a surge in hunger and disease are causing civilian casualties, including among children, and are overwhelming an already fragile health system, the UN health agency stated.
Since the onset of the conflict, a total of 46 health workers have been killed in El Fasher, including the director of primary healthcare within the state’s ministry of health. An additional 48 health workers have sustained injuries during this period. The status of personnel from three non-governmental organizations operating in El Fasher remains uncertain.
El Fasher has been isolated from humanitarian aid since February 2025, resulting in a significant rise in malnutrition rates, particularly affecting children and pregnant women. This malnutrition is weakening immunity and increasing vulnerability to diseases such as cholera and malaria, the WHO reported.
To assist in this dire situation, WHO teams are working continuously to provide health services where possible, especially to the displaced individuals affected by the conflict. The organization is relocating 20 tonnes of medicines and emergency kits—comprising supplies for cholera management and for treating acute malnutrition with medical complications—from Nyala to Tawila to support medical teams responding to the needs of displaced populations.
The situation in El Fasher remains critical, as ongoing violence and humanitarian crises threaten the health and safety of countless civilians.
Published on November 3, 2025.
