ASIATODAY.ID, ABYEI — The international community has been shaken by a deadly escalation of violence in Sudan after six United Nations peacekeepers from Bangladesh were killed in a drone attack on a UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) logistics base in Kadugli, South Kordofan.
A solemn farewell ceremony was held on Monday at UNISFA headquarters in Abyei to honour the fallen “blue helmets,” who lost their lives while serving on the front lines of global peacekeeping. Their remains will be formally escorted back to Bangladesh under UN arrangements.
Speaking at the UN’s daily noon briefing on December 15, 2025, Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq confirmed that the attack, which occurred on Saturday, also injured nine other peacekeepers. UNISFA described the incident as a “horrific drone attack,” noting that the identity of those responsible remains unknown.
Sacrifice in the Name of Peace
UNISFA paid tribute to the fallen personnel, stating that their “sacrifice for peace will never be forgotten.” The mission expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased, as well as to the Government and people of Bangladesh.
The nine injured peacekeepers were evacuated from Kadugli to Abyei on the day of the attack and are currently receiving treatment at UNISFA’s hospital. The mission stressed that providing comprehensive medical care to the wounded remains its top priority.
Strong Condemnation from the United Nations
UNISFA strongly condemned the attack, offering its most sincere sympathies to the families of those killed and to Bangladeshi authorities, while wishing the injured a swift and full recovery. The incident has once again underscored the growing dangers faced by UN peacekeepers operating in volatile conflict zones.
Security Tightened, Accountability Demanded
In response to the deadly strike, UNISFA announced that it has reinforced protection measures for its personnel and facilities, including enhanced security at the Kadugli logistics base, and will continue to closely assess the evolving security situation.
The Acting Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Robert Yaw Affram, visited Kadugli on Monday to assess conditions on the ground following the attack.
UNISFA also reiterated the Secretary-General’s message that attacks targeting UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law, and that those responsible must be identified and held fully accountable.
A Critical Mission in a Fragile, Oil-Rich Region
Established in 2011, UNISFA operates in the disputed, oil-rich Abyei region, where tensions remain high. Its mandate—recently extended for another year—includes strengthening the Abyei Police Service, monitoring and verifying the redeployment of forces, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and protecting civilians.
Nearly 4,000 military, police, and civilian personnel currently serve with UNISFA, a stark reminder that maintaining peace in conflict zones often comes at a devastating human cost. (AT Network)
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