Two UN peacekeepers killed in South Sudan ambush

Key facts

• Two UN peacekeepers from Ethiopia were killed and seven others injured in an ambush in South Sudan's Jonglei State.
• The attack occurred while a patrol was traveling to Pajut.
• Among the injured were three peacekeepers, two South Sudanese police officers, and two civilian staff.
• The UN stated that attacks against peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law.
• The UN called for a prompt investigation to ensure accountability.

Two UN peacekeepers from Ethiopia were killed and seven other people injured in an ambush on Monday in South Sudan's Jonglei State. The attack occurred while a patrol was traveling to Pajut. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) deployed a Quick Reaction Force to the area. UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that nine peacekeepers have been killed in malicious acts this year and that attacks against UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law. Anita Kiki Gbeho, head of UNMISS, condemned the violence and called for a prompt investigation to ensure accountability.