UN Security Council Condemns RSF Drone Strikes in Abyei, Calls for End to Occupation of the Area
Members of the United Nations Security Council strongly condemned drone attacks in the Abyei area, located between Sudan and South Sudan, near the Amiet and Todach markets, which resulted in the deaths and injuries of numerous people, including women and children.
In a press statement published on the UN News website on Saturday, Council members extended their condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Abyei, and wished the injured a speedy and full recovery.
The statement said Security Council members were deeply concerned that the death toll could rise as the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) continued to verify the casualties.
Council members stressed that international humanitarian law prohibits attacks targeting civilians and civilian objects, and that such attacks may constitute war crimes.
They reiterated the need for the Abyei area to remain demilitarized and free of all forces, except for the United Nations Interim Security Force.
The statement urged all parties to cease all military operations and end the “occupation” of the Abyei area. Security Council members also reaffirmed their support for UNISFA, stressing that all parties must cooperate with the force to ensure the safety and security of civilians, humanitarian personnel, and peacekeepers.
The Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs had denied, in a statement issued on Friday, October 23, that the Sudanese Armed Forces had any connection to the attacks. It said the crimes were characteristic of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, which had previously attacked UNISFA forces in Kadugli last year.