India condemns deadly attack on UN peacekeepers in South Sudan

India strongly condemned an attack on UN peacekeepers in South Sudan that killed two and injured seven. New Delhi called for an immediate and thorough investigation, urging all parties to ensure the safety of UN personnel and bring perpetrators to justice.

India on Monday condemned the attack on UN peacekeepers deployed with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in which two were killed while seven sustained injuries, and called for an "immediate and thorough" investigation into the attack.

In a post on X, the Permanent Mission of India to the United Nations, New York, paid tribute to the fallen peacekeepers and wished speedy recovery of those injured. The Mission further underlined the importance of respecting UN personnel and premises. "We condemn the attack carried out on UN peacekeepers deployed with UNMISS on 24 August 2026. We pay tribute to the fallen Ethiopian Blue Helmet and wish an early recovery to the injured peacekeepers. India reiterates the fundamental importance of respecting the sanctity and inviolability of UN premises and personnel," the post read.

India Calls for Probe, Accountability

Furthermore, the Indian Mission called upon all stakeholders to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and urged complete compliance with the UNSC resolution regarding Accountability for Crimes against Peacekeepers while calling for a detailed probe and accountability in the matter. "We call upon all parties to ensure the safety and security of UN peacekeepers, who operate under UN Security Council mandates. India urges full adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 2589 on Accountability for Crimes against Peacekeepers, and calls for an immediate and thorough investigation into this attack to bring the perpetrators to justice, and ensure full accountability," the Mission stated.

UNMISS Condemns 'Unacceptable' Violence

Meanwhile, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) also extended strong condemnation towards the attack against the two peacekeepers by "unidentified armed individuals." In an official statement, the Mission wrote, "The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) strongly condemns today's ambush on its patrol travelling to Pajut, Jonglei state, by unidentified armed individuals. Two peacekeepers were killed in the attack, while seven others were injured, including three peacekeepers, two South Sudan National Police Service personnel and two civilian staff."

The Mission has also deployed a "Quick Reaction Force" to secure the area and support the emergency response. "Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable. I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the peacekeepers who lost their lives and wish those injured a speedy recovery," said Anita Kiki Gbeho, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS.

Attacks May Constitute War Crimes

Furthermore, the mission said that the attacks against UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law. "I call on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and prompt investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice," SRSG Gbeho added. (ANI)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)