New York

17 April 2014

Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on South Sudan

The Secretary-General strongly condemns today’s attack on civilians and United Nations Peacekeepers in the UNMISS Protection of Civilians site in Bor, capital of Jonglei State in South Sudan. This attack on a location where civilians are being protected by the United Nations is a serious escalation.

The Secretary-General reminds all parties that any attack on United Nations Peacekeepers is unacceptable and constitutes a war crime.

The Secretary- General expresses his condolences to the bereaved families and pledges all possible support to those wounded in this attack.

The Secretary-General calls on the Government of South Sudan to immediately take steps to ensure the safety of all UNMISS Protection of Civilians sites in South Sudan. He also calls on all parties to refrain from any actions or statements that could further escalate the situation.