The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) reported that two peacekeepers were killed in an ambush by unidentified armed individuals in Jonglei state on Monday. The attack occurred as a patrol was heading to the town of Pajut. Jonglei state has been a focus of recent conflict between the government and opposition forces in the highly unstable east African country.
The UNMISS statement strongly condemned the incident, saying it could constitute war crimes. Seven others were injured, including three peacekeepers, two South Sudan National Police Service personnel, and two civilian staff. The UN has deployed a Quick Reaction Force to the area. The incident has been met with widespread condemnation, with many calling for increased protection for UN personnel.
Anita Kiki Gbeho, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS, extended her deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the peacekeepers who lost their lives. She wished those injured a speedy recovery. The attack on UN peacekeepers has raised concerns about the security situation in South Sudan, which gained independence in 2011 but soon fell into civil war.
A power-sharing deal ended the war in 2018, but it has lately been falling apart, even as the government of President Salva Kiir attempts to hold the country's first elections in December. The security situation in Jonglei state has been deteriorating, with clashes between government and opposition forces reported in recent weeks.
The UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan has been operating since 2011, with a mandate to support peace and stability in the country. The mission has faced challenges in recent years, including attacks on its personnel and equipment. The latest attack has raised concerns about the safety of UN personnel and the effectiveness of the peacekeeping mission.
South Sudan is one of the poorest and most corrupt nations in the world. The country has struggled to recover from years of civil war, with many citizens facing humanitarian challenges. The government has been working to improve the security situation and provide basic services to citizens.
The incident has sparked international condemnation, with many countries calling for increased protection for UN personnel. The UN has urged the government of South Sudan to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
Key points
- Two UN peacekeepers were killed and seven others injured in an ambush in Jonglei state, South Sudan.
- The attack has been strongly condemned by the UN, which has deployed a Quick Reaction Force to the area.
- The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in South Sudan, which has been struggling to recover from years of civil war.
