Two UN peacekeepers killed in ambush while on patrol in South Sudan, seven others injured

Two United Nations peacekeepers were killed and seven other personnel were injured in an ambush while on patrol in South Sudan's Jonglei state on Monday. The attack occurred as the patrol was traveling to Pajut, according to a statement from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Unidentified armed men ambushed the patrol, resulting in the deaths of the two peacekeepers. Among the seven injured were three other peacekeepers, two South Sudan National Police Service personnel, and two civilian staff members. UNMISS confirmed it deployed a Quick Reaction Force to secure the area and provide emergency support.

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Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable.

Anita Kiki Gbeho, the head of UNMISS, condemned the violence, stating, "Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable." The mission has called for a swift investigation into the incident.

UNMISS emphasized that attacks on UN personnel, while rare, are not unprecedented in South Sudan. The mission's patrols often operate in volatile regions affected by intercommunal conflicts, armed youth groups, and clashes involving government forces. The UN mission stressed that such attacks may be considered war crimes under international law.

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Attacks on UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law.