Why Did the UN Security Council Condemn Drone Attacks on Peacekeepers in Sudan?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- UN Security Council condemned drone attacks on peacekeepers.
- Six Bangladeshi peacekeepers lost their lives.
- International law violations highlighted as a grave concern.
- Call for accountability for the attacks.
- Need for cooperation between Sudan and South Sudan emphasized.
United Nations, Dec 20 (NationPress) The UN Security Council on Friday expressed its condemnation of the recent drone strikes against a UN logistics facility in Sudan, which resulted in the deaths of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and left nine others injured.
In an official statement, the Security Council members conveyed their heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased peacekeepers, as well as to the government and citizens of Bangladesh. They also wished for a speedy and complete recovery for those injured.
The drone strikes took place in Kadugli, located in the South Kordofan state of Sudan, on Saturday.
The council members voiced their serious concerns about this intentional attack on a UN logistics facility and the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) personnel, highlighting it as a significant violation of international law that threatens global peace and security.
They condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the targeting of UN peacekeepers and all forms of aggression against UNISFA, calling for immediate accountability for those responsible for such assaults.
The members reiterated that such attacks on peacekeepers might amount to war crimes under international law and reminded all involved parties of their responsibilities under international humanitarian law. They urged the UN to rapidly investigate these incidents with UNISFA's assistance and to keep the relevant troop-contributing country updated on the findings.
The Security Council urged host authorities to take all necessary actions to ensure the safety and security of all UN facilities, personnel, and peacekeepers, while also encouraging both Sudan and South Sudan to fully support UNISFA and its operations.
They emphasized the necessity for enhanced cooperation between Sudan and South Sudan to foster peace, security, and stability in Abyei, a territory claimed by both nations, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in conflict, with fighting erupting between the SAF and the RSF, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and displacing millions both within the nation and across its borders.