Abyei, 18 August 2023 - The United Nations Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA) has expressed serious concern about the ongoing hostilities in and around Kadugli, South Kordofan, which led to the targeting of a UNISFA helicopter on August 10. The Mission urgently calls on all parties to the conflict to exercise restraint and safeguard the safety of civilians and peacekeepers operating under the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JBVMM).
We are deeply concerned about the firing and shelling with heavy weapon systems in Kadugli and surrounding areas, resulting in valuable loss of lives and the gradual displacement of hundreds of civilians from their homes. It is of utmost importance that all parties to the conflict refrain from targeting civilians.
We urge the warring factions to not target our peacekeepers as the JBVMM continues to carry out its mandated tasks in and around Kadugli and in our team sites in the fulfilment of the mandates set forth in the United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSCR) establishing JBVMM.
UNISFA urgently appeals for immediate de-escalation of tensions and the protection of the rights and freedoms of the civilians. We urge all parties to embrace constructive dialogue that seeks peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.