Two UN Peacekeepers Killed in Ambush in South Sudan

Two United Nations peacekeepers have died and seven others sustained injuries following an ambush by unidentified armed assailants targeting a UN patrol in South Sudan's Jonglei state. The incident occurred on Monday as the patrol was heading to Pajut, a town in the conflict-ridden eastern part of the country.

The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) issued a strong condemnation of the attack. The injured include three UN peacekeepers, two members of the South Sudanese National Police Service, and two civilian employees. The mission has not yet identified the attackers or provided details on the circumstances or motive behind the ambush.

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It is unacceptable that such lethal violence is committed against UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan.

Anita Kiki Gbeho, the head of UNMISS, stated that the lethal violence against personnel serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable. She extended condolences to the families of the deceased peacekeepers and wished a swift recovery to those injured. The UN mission emphasized that deliberate attacks against UN peacekeepers may be considered war crimes under international law.

UNMISS urged South Sudanese authorities to investigate the attack and ensure accountability for those responsible. Jonglei state, one of South Sudan's largest, has been plagued by persistent insecurity, including armed clashes, intercommunal violence, cattle raiding, and attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers. UNMISS maintains a peacekeeping presence in the state to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian access, and help prevent violence.

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The UN mission warned that deliberate attacks against United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law, including international humanitarian law.