UN Security Council Condemns Attack on Peacekeeping Mission in South Sudan

Washington, Aug 28 (KUNA) – The UN Security Council today, Friday, strongly condemned the attack by armed men on a patrol of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in Jonglei State, southern Sudan, which resulted in the deaths of two peacekeepers and injuries to seven others. In a press statement, Council members offered their heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the families and relatives of the victims, expressed their full support for the contributing countries affected by the attack, and wished the injured a speedy recovery. The statement stressed that attacks on UN peacekeeping forces could amount to war crimes under international law, calling for a full, transparent, and immediate investigation, and emphasizing the necessity of identifying those responsible for the attack and bringing them to justice without delay. It affirmed that impunity in relation to such attacks “is unacceptable,” expressing deep concern over the continued tribal and armed violence in Jonglei State and its devastating impact on civilians, relief workers, and peacekeepers alike. Council members called on political and community leaders in South Sudan to engage in efforts aimed at taking immediate and decisive steps to end the violence and ensure the protection of all personnel, in order to promote peace and security in the country. The statement also highlighted the urgent activation by UNMISS of emergency response measures, including the deployment of a rapid reaction force, while reaffirming steadfast support for the Mission and its mandate. It further stressed the need for the government to work with the UN Mission within its mandate to ensure the safety and security of peacekeepers and to implement its mandate of protecting civilians and supporting the peace process in South Sudan. Last Tuesday, the United Nations announced the death of two peacekeepers from UNMISS in South Sudan and the injury of seven others, adding that unidentified armed men ambushed a Mission patrol heading to Pagot in Jonglei State. (End) A.M.M. / M.A.H.A.