The head of the UN at a press conference at the headquarters of the Organization (archive). UN chief condemns deadly attack on peacekeepers in Sudan Peace and Security
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday strongly condemned the drone attacks on the UN peacekeepers’ logistics base in Kadugli, South Kordofan state, which killed six peacekeepers and injured eight others.
The attack on December 13 was directed against members of the Bangladeshi contingent that was part of the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei. All the victims, according to the statement, are UN peacekeepers.
António Guterres expressed his deep condolences to the government and people of Bangladesh, as well as the families of the victims. He wished a speedy recovery to the wounded and noted that necessary assistance was being provided to those awaiting evacuation.
The UN chief stressed that attacks on United Nations peacekeepers could constitute war crimes under international law, and reminded all parties to the conflict of their obligation to protect UN personnel and civilians.
He called the attack in Yuzhny Kordofan “unjustified”, stressing that those responsible must be brought to justice.
The Secretary-General also expressed solidarity with the thousands of peacekeepers who continue to serve under the UN blue flag in dangerous conditions.
He again called on the warring parties to agree to an immediate cessation of hostilities and resume negotiations to achieve a lasting ceasefire and a comprehensive and inclusive political process led by the Sudanese themselves.