UN peacekeepers ambushed in South Sudan, two killed and seven wounded

On Monday, a United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) patrol heading to Pajut in Jonglei state was ambushed by unidentified gunmen, resulting in the deaths of two UN peacekeepers and injuries to seven others. The wounded included three peacekeepers, two members of the South Sudan National Police Service and two civilian staff members. UNMISS responded by deploying a Quick Reaction Force to secure the area and support emergency response efforts.

Anita Kiki Gbeho, head of the mission, described the attack as unacceptable, urged a swift investigation, and noted that such assaults may constitute war crimes under international law. While attacks on UN personnel are uncommon in South Sudan, they have taken place in volatile regions affected by intercommunal clashes and armed youth mobilizations. The incident highlights the persistent security challenges confronting peacekeeping operations in the country.