This Is Not Just a Conflict—This Is a Campaign of Terror

Dr. Safa Ali fights to save mothers and newborns in Sudan while the world looks away. In this op-ed, she exposes the urgent need for global action. Since April 2023, over 60,000 people have been killed—potentially as many as 150,000—and more than 8.2 million displaced.

Following the recent attack on a vegetable market in Omdurman by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), we have encountered a significant influx of patients with severe injuries, including shrapnel wounds, fractures, and burns. Tragically, many of the victims are women and children. With the proximity of the attack to a hospital, this has further strained our already limited resources and capabilities, making it challenging to provide adequate care to all those in need.

Female medical professionals are confronting unprecedented challenges. Hospitals have become targets, with reports of RSF fighters storming facilities, looting medical supplies, and physically assaulting staff. In one instance, the Saudi Maternity Hospital was overtaken, leading to significant disruptions in patient care. These attacks not only jeopardize our safety but also hinder our ability to deliver essential healthcare services.

The ongoing conflict has severely compromised healthcare access for women and children. Many healthcare facilities have been destroyed or rendered nonfunctional, leaving vast areas without essential medical services. Pregnant women, in particular, are very vulnerable, facing life-threatening complications without access to maternal care. The displacement of populations has further exacerbated health risks, with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and nutrition.

Despite the dangers, my colleagues and I remain committed to our duty. We have adopted various strategies to continue providing care, such as operating in undisclosed locations, utilizing mobile clinics, and coordinating with international organizations to provide supplies. However, the constant threat of violence, coupled with resource shortages, makes our work increasingly challenging.

This is why immediate international action is not just necessary—it is urgent. We call upon global leaders to recognize the RSF as a militia responsible for heinous crimes against the Sudanese people, including widespread violence, sexual assault, and the deliberate targeting of healthcare facilities. Sanctions must be imposed, and efforts to hold perpetrators accountable intensified. Additionally, establishing safe corridors for medical supplies and personnel is essential and should be a priority to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.

My message to President Trump is this: Sudan has suffered enough. The RSF have committed unspeakable atrocities against the people of Sudan. They have slaughtered innocent civilians, raped women, and destroyed our nation’s infrastructure. Families have been torn apart, hospitals have been targeted, and our people are living in constant fear.

This is not just a conflict; this is a campaign of terror against innocent men, women, and children. It’s time for the world to stop turning a blind eye. Mr. President, you have the power to end this suffering. Your leadership can bring about real change. The people of Sudan need action. We need sanctions, accountability, and immediate intervention to protect the innocent, especially women and children. We need you to stand with us. The world is watching.

History will remember those who chose to stand against this brutality. The question is—will you?