The Journey of Dr. Mounir Hakimi

Dr. Mounir Hakimi, a co-founder of Syria Relief, has dedicated his life to saving others through some of the world's most harrowing conflicts. His work has spanned from the besieged cities of Syria to the aftermath of the Manchester Arena bombing and the crisis of the Rohingya refugees, showcasing his unwavering commitment to humanitarianism.

Early Life and Motivation

Born in the United Kingdom and raised in Syria, Dr. Hakimi's early years were marked by a deep-seated passion for medicine and helping those in need. His dual heritage provided him with a unique perspective, with the resilience and determination of Syrians with the resources and opportunities available in the UK. This background propelled him into a career where he could bridge these worlds, offering critical medical assistance in conflict zones while advocating for international support.

Humanitarian Work in Syria

Dr. Hakimi's most notable contributions began with his work in Syria. The civil war, which started in 2011, devastated the country, particularly its healthcare infrastructure. Recognising the dire need for medical aid, Dr. Hakimi co-founded Syria Relief. This organisation became a lifeline for countless Syrians, providing medical supplies, training for local doctors, and establishing field hospitals in some of the most dangerous areas.

Operating under the constant threat of airstrikes and bombings, Dr. Hakimi performed surgeries in makeshift hospitals, often with limited supplies and under extreme conditions. His work was not just about treating injuries but also about training Syrian doctors to handle mass casualty situations, drawing on techniques from the NHS. This training was crucial in a country where healthcare professionals were being targeted, and medical facilities were being destroyed.

Manchester Arena Bombing

In May 2017, Dr. Hakimi's skills were called upon in a different kind of crisis. The Manchester Arena bombing, a terrorist attack that killed 22 people and injured many more. As one of the surgeons treating the victims, Dr. Hakimi was struck by the similarities between the injuries he saw in Manchester and those he had treated in Aleppo.

He spoke about the emotional toll of treating young victims of terror, both in Syria and the UK. The bombing in Manchester was a stark reminder that violence and suffering are universal, transcending borders. Dr. Hakimi's ability to apply his battlefield experience to a domestic terror incident highlighted the global nature of his expertise and compassion.

Rohingya Refugee Crisis

Dr. Hakimi's commitment to humanitarian work did not stop in the Middle East or Europe. He extended his efforts to Southeast Asia, where the Rohingya people were facing severe persecution and displacement. The Rohingya crisis, which escalated in 2017, saw hundreds of thousands of people fleeing violence in Myanmar and seeking refuge in Bangladesh.

Dr. Hakimi joined efforts to provide medical care to the Rohingya refugees, who were living in dire conditions in makeshift camps. His work involved treating diseases, injuries, and malnutrition, as well as offering psychological support to a traumatized population. The challenges were immense, but Dr. Hakimi's dedication to alleviating suffering and bringing hope to those in desperate need was unwavering.

Challenges

Throughout his career, Dr. Hakimi has faced numerous challenges. In Syria, hospitals supported by Syria Relief were targeted, medical supplies were scarce, and the constant threat of violence loomed over every operation. His work earned him recognition and respect globally, but he has always remained focused on the mission of providing care and training to those in the most need.

Dr. Mounir Hakimi's work with Syria Relief and beyond has saved lives and provided critical training and support in some of the world's most challenging environments.

Dr. Hakimi's story is not just about a doctor responding to crises but about a pursuit of justice. His contributions remind us that in the darkest times, individuals like Dr. Hakimi can bring light and hope, bridging divides and healing wounds both physical and emotional.

Sources:

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/aleppo-siege-manchester-attack-now-surgeon-treating-rohingya

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/06/27/syrias-war-on-doctors

https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/i-saw-same-wounds-aleppo-syrian-doctor-saving-manchester-lives