Tuesday, 25 August 2026 |Joseph Oduha | File Photo |
Two United Nations peacekeepers were killed and seven others injured after a UN patrol was ambushed in South Sudan’s Jonglei State, the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said.
The patrol was travelling to Pajut when it came under attack by unidentified armed individuals, according to UNMISS.
Those injured include three peacekeepers, two South Sudan National Police Service personnel and two civilian staff members.
UNMISS deployed a Quick Reaction Force to secure the area and support the emergency response.
The UN’s top official in South Sudan, Anita Kiki Gbeho, condemned the attack and called for those responsible to be brought to justice.
“Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable,” Gbeho said.
She offered condolences to the families and colleagues of those killed and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
UNMISS warned that attacks against its peacekeepers could constitute war crimes under international law.
The United States also condemned the attack, saying it was carried out by armed youth.
The US Embassy in Juba said it was deeply concerned by continuing intercommunal and armed violence in Jonglei, which it said was taking a heavy toll on civilians and peacekeepers.
It called for a full and transparent investigation and urged South Sudanese authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
The embassy also urged political and community leaders to take urgent action to prevent further violence and protect people working to promote peace and security.
The United Kingdom likewise condemned the attack and reaffirmed its support for UNMISS.
“Attacks against them can never be tolerated,” the UK said, calling on the relevant authorities to conduct a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation and ensure that those responsible are held to account.
The UK said it was deeply concerned by persistent violence in Jonglei and elsewhere in South Sudan this year, which has killed civilians, humanitarian workers and now peacekeepers.
“We appeal to South Sudan’s political and community leaders to act together to support peace and prevent further violence,” it said.
The attack underscores the growing security challenges facing Jonglei State, where intercommunal violence and armed confrontations have repeatedly threatened civilians, humanitarian workers and peacekeeping operations.
