United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a forceful condemnation of drone strikes that targeted a UN peacekeeping logistics base in Kadugli, Sudan, on Saturday. The assault resulted in significant casualties among international peacekeeping personnel stationed at the facility.
The attack claimed the lives of six peacekeepers from Bangladesh and left eight others wounded. All casualties were members of the Bangladeshi contingent serving with the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). Secretary-General Guterres conveyed his profound condolences to the government and citizens of Bangladesh, extending sympathies to the families of deceased personnel and wishes for rapid recovery to those injured.
In an official statement, Guterres emphasized that assaults targeting United Nations peacekeeping operations may be classified as war crimes under established international law. He reminded all conflict participants of their fundamental obligation to ensure the protection of UN personnel and civilian populations, explicitly stating that accountability measures would be necessary.
The UN leader reiterated urgent appeals for warring factions to implement an immediate cessation of hostilities and resume diplomatic negotiations aimed at establishing a sustainable ceasefire. He further emphasized the necessity of developing a comprehensive political process that is both inclusive and Sudanese-owned.
The Sudanese Armed Forces have attributed responsibility for the drone strike to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), allegations that the RSF leadership has categorically denied. This incident represents a significant escalation in violence targeting international peacekeeping missions within the region.