UN chief condemns drone attack in Sudan that resulted in the deaths of six peacekeepers.

In a tragic escalation of violence in Sudan, a recent drone attack has resulted in the death of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers stationed at a United Nations facility in Kadugli. As the conflict in Sudan intensifies, this incident highlights the critical role of international peacekeeping forces and the urgent need for a resolution to ongoing hostilities. The attack underscores the fragility of peace efforts in the region and emphasizes the importance of accountability in the face of such aggression against personnel dedicated to maintaining stability.

A drone attack targeted a United Nations facility in Sudan’s war-torn region, resulting in the deaths of six peacekeepers. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack, which struck a logistics base in Kadugli, part of the troubled Kordofan region, on Saturday. This incident occurred amidst a complex and protracted conflict that has engulfed Sudan since the power struggle between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) ignited fierce fighting in April 2023.

The attack caused injuries to eight other peacekeepers, all of whom were Bangladeshi nationals serving in the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). Guterres decried the act, stating, “Attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law,” and stressed that there must be accountability for such actions. The Sudanese army has attributed the drone strike to the RSF, a paramilitary organization, which has been engaged in a civil war against the government for over two years.

In a statement, the Sudanese army characterized the attack as indicative of a “subversive approach” by the militia groups. They released footage showing plumes of smoke billowing from the UN facility following the strike. Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called on the UN to provide emergency support to the affected personnel and their families during this difficult time.

The Abyei region, which is contested between Sudan and South Sudan, has hosted a UN mission since 2011, following South Sudan’s independence. Guterres also urged an immediate ceasefire in Sudan to facilitate a political process, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive and inclusive resolution. The ongoing conflict has led to significant casualties, with over 40,000 lives claimed, although human rights organizations suggest this figure may be an underrepresentation of the true toll.

In light of the violence, reports indicate that urban areas have been devastated, with widespread atrocities, including mass rapes and targeted killings. The conflict has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis, pushing parts of Sudan toward famine conditions. The recent attack comes only a month after the UN Security Council voted to extend the UNISFA peacekeeping mission, which deploys about 4,000 police and soldiers to safeguard civilians in regions afflicted by continual armed clashes. Bangladesh remains one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping efforts, with its forces having a long-standing presence in Abyei.

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