UN Chief condemns drone attack killing six Bangladeshi peacekeepers in Sudan

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a strong condemnation of a drone attack in Sudan that killed six United Nations peacekeepers from Bangladesh and wounded eight others, warning that such assaults may amount to war crimes. The attack targeted a UN logistics base in Kadugli, part of the contested Abyei region.

"Unjustifiable" Attacks and a Call for Accountability

In a statement posted on social media platform X, Guterres described the assault as "horrific" and "unjustifiable." "Attacks against UN peacekeepers like this one are unjustifiable and may constitute war crimes. I remind everyone of their obligation to protect UN personnel and civilians. There will need to be accountability," the UN chief stated. He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the people and government of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh's Response and the Conflict Context

The head of Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus, earlier condemned the Saturday attack as a serious crime against "international peace and humanity." He expressed shock and stated that the UN had been requested to ensure the highest level of medical care for the injured personnel. The incident occurred within the broader context of Sudan's internal conflict between the national army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, which began in April 2023.

Sudanese Army Accusations and Mission Background

The Sudanese military formally accused the RSF of carrying out the attack, labeling it an act that reveals the rebel militia's "subversive approach." The RSF had not issued an immediate comment. The targeted mission, the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), was deployed in 2011 to the oil-rich area claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan. Its mandate was renewed just last month, underscoring the ongoing instability in the region.