Somali hospitals overwhelmed by rising casualties amid intensifying conflict

Hospitals in Somalia are struggling to cope with the mounting casualties as the conflict intensifies across the country.

The surge in violence, particularly in regions like the Middle and Lower Shebelle, is pushing local medical facilities to their limits.

According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the first quarter of 2025 has seen a sharp increase in the number of weapon-related injuries, placing immense pressure on hospitals already facing resource shortages.

In Mogadishu, Madina Hospital, supported by the ICRC, has seen a 26 percent rise in weapon-wounded patients compared to the previous quarter.

“We have seen a significant increase of weapon-wounded patients treated in the medical facilities we support since the beginning of the year, as well as an increase of requests for ad hoc support from other hospitals,” Antoine Grand, the ICRC delegation’s head in Somalia, said.

“We are concerned by this situation, as civilian lives are at stake, and we urgently call on all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law.”

The ongoing fighting has also caused a massive displacement crisis, with over 100,000 people fleeing their homes since March 2025.

These displaced populations are adding additional pressure to already limited humanitarian resources.

Meanwhile, military operations in areas like Puntland have intensified, and clashes in Sool and Sanaag regions continue to result in more casualties. With the added threat of a looming drought, the humanitarian crisis is set to worsen.

To address these challenges, the ICRC and Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS) have mobilized emergency teams and medical supplies.

Between January and March 2025, the ICRC supplied 20 hospitals across Somalia with essential medical equipment, including surgical tools and bandages.

This assistance has been vital in helping hospitals like Madina, SRCS Keysaney Hospital, and Kismayo General Hospital treat hundreds of conflict-related injuries.

In addition to hospital support, the ICRC has been assisting in emergency evacuations. Through SRCS’s Ambulance Centres in Mogadishu, Galkayo, and Las Anod, the ICRC has helped evacuate 433 wounded individuals to medical facilities across the country.

The ICRC has also delivered over 200 body bags to ensure the dignified handling of the deceased.

The situation in Somalia remains critical as violence and displacement continue to escalate. Despite ongoing humanitarian efforts, the gap between the needs of the population and the available resources is growing.

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