The UN Security Council on Thursday issued a resolute statement condemning a series of attacks in the disputed territory of Abyei on January 27 and 28.
These violent attacks resulted in the tragic deaths of two peacekeepers— one Ghanaian and one Pakistani—along with injuries to several other UNISFA personnel and civilians.
The Council extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families, governments of Ghana and Pakistan, and the UN, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability. Moreover, they expressed grave concern over escalating violence and called for enhanced collaboration between South Sudan’s transitional government and Sudanese authorities to restore peace and stability in Abyei.
In the strongest terms, the Security Council denounced the targeting of UN peacekeepers and all attacks and provocations against UNISFA. They called for accountability for those responsible for the reported attacks, emphasizing that such actions may constitute war crimes under international law.
Expressing ongoing concern about the escalation of violence in the Abyei Administrative Area, the Security Council recalled the killing of the Deputy Chief Administrator of Abyei and five civilians on December 31, 2023, as well as reported attacks on civilians and peacekeepers on February 3 and 4 resulting in the deaths of 37 civilians. “The Council urges the transitional government of South Sudan and the Government of Sudan to address the ongoing violence effectively and bring an end to the cycle of retaliation,” the Security Council said.
The Security Council members reaffirmed their robust support for UNISFA during this challenging period, expressing gratitude to troop- and police-contributing countries. Emphasizing the paramount importance the Council assigns to the safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers in the field, “they highlighted the imperative for relevant legal authorities to thoroughly investigate and engage with the communities involved as appropriate,” the Council said in a statement.
Furthermore, the Security Council emphasized the critical need for increased collaboration between the South Sudanese transitional government and the Sudanese Government, saying “Such collaboration is deemed vital for fostering peace, security, and stability in Abyei. The Security Council stressed the importance of engaging the communities embroiled in the violence, taking necessary measures to de-escalate tensions between affected groups, and protecting civilians.”
The press statement by the UN Security Council concluded, “This concerted effort aims to uphold peace and security, aligning with the interests and well-being of the people of Abyei.”