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Attacks against the United Nations and civilians in South Sudan: Security Council Press Statement
The following Security Council press statement was issued by Council President U. Joy Ogwu (Nigeria):
The members of the Security Council expressed their outrage at the recent attacks by armed groups in South Sudan that have purposefully targeted civilians as well as UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) sites and personnel, in particular the 17 April attack against the UNMISS compound in Bor that resulted in scores of dead and injured, including those seeking the shelter and protection of the United Nations, and the 14 April attacks in Bentiu and Unity State.
The members of the Security Council condemned in the strongest terms these acts and underscored that attacks on civilians and UN peacekeepers may constitute a war crime. The members of the Security Council extended their condolences to the families of those civilians injured and killed in these attacks, and to the people of South Sudan who deserve the opportunity to live in peace.
The members of the Security Council called on the Government of South Sudan to immediately take steps to ensure the safety of all civilians and UNMISS Protection of Civilian sites in South Sudan, to swiftly investigate these incidents, and to bring the perpetrators of these egregious acts to justice. The members of the Security Council also called on both parties to allow UNMISS to fully implement its mandate.
The members of the Security Council underscored their full support for UNMISS peacekeepers and commended the actions of the UNMISS contingents in Bor as they sought to fulfill their mandate to protect civilians. They also called on all parties to refrain from actions or statements that could further escalate the situation.