At the daily midday press briefing, UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq reported that “peacekeepers” were killed and nine others injured on Saturday during a “horrific drone attack” on the UNISFA Washington logistics base. The identity of the attackers remains unknown.
Sacrifice for Peace
A ceremony in Abyei honored the fallen peacekeepers, whose bodies will be returned to Bangladesh. UNISFA stated that their “sacrifice for peace will never be forgotten,” expressing solidarity with the families, the government, and people of Bangladesh. The nine injured were evacuated to Abyei for treatment at the UNISFA hospital, with medical care being a top priority. The mission condemned the attack and extended condolences to the victims’ families and Bangladeshi authorities, wishing a speedy recovery for the injured.
New Protective Measures
UNISFA has implemented protective measures for its personnel and facilities, strengthening security at the Kadugli logistics base, and is evaluating the situation. Major General Robert Yaw-Affram, Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander, visited Kadugli on Monday. UNISFA echoed the Secretary-General’s message that attacks on peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law and those responsible must be held accountable.
Established in 2011, the mission, recently renewed for a year, aims to strengthen the Abyei Police Service, monitor force redeployment, facilitate humanitarian aid delivery, and protect civilians in the disputed, oil-rich region. Nearly 4,000 military and police personnel, alongside civilian staff, are on duty.
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