UN Chief Condemns Attack on Peacekeepers
The UN chief expressed strong condemnation for an attack that resulted in eight peacekeepers from the UN Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) being wounded during clashes between the M23 rebel movement and Government troops.
Details of the Incident
The incident took place near Sake, only 20 kilometers from Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. The peacekeepers, part of Operation Springbok aimed at protecting civilians in the region, sustained injuries during the ongoing conflict where UN troops have been supporting Government forces to safeguard vulnerable civilians.
UN Secretary-General’s Response
In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, UN Secretary-General António Guterres denounced the attack, highlighting its potential classification as a war crime under international law. He expressed hopes for a speedy recovery for the injured peacekeepers and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities by all armed groups, both Congolese and foreign fighters.
Call for Compliance
The UN chief stressed the importance of the M23 group withdrawing completely from the occupied territory and adhering to the agreements outlined in the Luanda communiqué of November 2022 to preserve the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC.
Reaction from UN Special Representative
Bintou Keita, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC and head of the UN mission MONUSCO, also condemned the attack. She noted that one peacekeeper had sustained severe injuries, and all wounded personnel have been evacuated for necessary medical treatment.
Commitment to Justice
Ms. Keita reiterated MONUSCO’s commitment to supporting investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice. The mission remains dedicated to implementing its mandate to protect civilians and collaborate with Congolese defence and security forces in joint patrols to enhance civilian protection.
