United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has strongly condemned an aerial attack targeting a UN facility in Kadugli, South Sudan, which resulted in the deaths of six peacekeepers and injuries to eight others. The Secretary-General warned that the attack may constitute a war crime under international law and called for those responsible for the “unjustifiable attack” to be held accountable.
The drone strike targeted a logistics base belonging to the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) in Kadugli, the capital of South Kordofan state. The UN has confirmed that all casualties were of Bangladeshi nationality.
In a statement released on Saturday, Guterres asserted that “attacks targeting UN peacekeepers are unjustifiable and may constitute war crimes under international law.” He emphasized the need for an immediate investigation and for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. The Secretary-General reiterated his call for all Sudanese parties to “immediately cease hostilities and return to the negotiating table to ensure a permanent ceasefire and the launch of an inclusive political process.”
DZWatch has learned that the deceased and injured have been evacuated from the Kadugli camp to the disputed Abyei region. A source within UNISFA indicated that the mission is considering a complete evacuation of soldiers and personnel from the targeted logistics base. The mission’s Security and Safety Unit has issued directives for its staff to avoid the area and recommended accelerating the temporary relocation of over 30 workers.
The Sudanese army has accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of responsibility for the attack. In a statement, the army claimed the strike “clearly reveals the destructive approach of the rebel militia and those behind it.” The RSF has denied any involvement. This marks the first direct attack on UNISFA since the outbreak of conflict in Sudan in mid-April 2023.
Kadugli is currently experiencing a precarious security situation, effectively under siege by the RSF. The attack raises serious concerns about the safety and security of international personnel operating in the region.
