This region, rich in oil, lies between Sudan and South Sudan and has been contested since their separation in 2011.
Kadugli, the capital of Sudan’s South Kordofan state, witnesses violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who have been at war for nearly three years.
Attacks on peacekeepers cannot be justified
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the “horrific” drone attacks. He extended his condolences to the Government and people of Bangladesh, families of the deceased peacekeepers, and wished a swift recovery for the injured.
“Targeting UN peacekeepers may be considered war crimes under international law. All conflict parties are reminded of their duty to protect UN personnel and civilians,” he stated in a declaration.
“Today’s attacks in South Kordofan on peacekeepers are indefensible. Those accountable must face justice.”
Renewed call for ceasefire
The Secretary-General stood in solidarity with thousands of peacekeepers serving under the UN flag in perilous conditions.
“I urge the warring factions to cease hostilities immediately and resume discussions for a lasting ceasefire and a comprehensive, inclusive political process led by Sudanese,” he urged.
Peacekeepers are not targets
On social media, the head of UN peacekeeping operations expressed shock over the “horrific drone attack” today.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix emphasized that “UN peacekeepers are not a target” and that “this attack could be considered a war crime”.
UNISFA, established in 2011, has a mandate recently extended for a year, involving enhancing the Abyei Police Service (APS) capacity, monitoring force redeployment from the area, supporting humanitarian aid delivery, and protecting civilians.
Nearly 4,000 military and police personnel, along with civilian staff, are engaged in the mission.
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