Two United Nations peacekeepers from Ethiopia have been killed after armed men ambushed a UN patrol in South Sudan’s Jonglei State, in another worrying sign of the country’s continuing security challenges.
The attack happened as personnel from the United Nations Mission in South Sudan, known as UNMISS, were travelling towards Pajut, a remote area in Jonglei State. Unidentified gunmen attacked the patrol, killing two peacekeepers and injuring seven other people.
The injured included three UN peacekeepers, two members of the South Sudan National Police Service and two civilian staff members. The United Nations said the attack appeared to have deliberately targeted the patrol, which was carrying out regular operations in an area affected by insecurity.
UNMISS quickly deployed a Quick Reaction Force to secure the area and support emergency operations following the attack. The mission said its immediate priority was to protect personnel, stabilise the situation and assist those injured during the ambush.
The Head of UNMISS, Anita Kiki Gbeho, strongly condemned the violence. She described the attack on personnel working to support peace and stability in South Sudan as unacceptable.
The United Nations has called for a thorough and prompt investigation to identify those responsible and bring them to justice. UN officials have also warned that deliberate attacks against peacekeepers may amount to war crimes under international law.
The latest incident has added to growing concerns about the safety of peacekeepers and humanitarian workers operating in conflict-prone areas. According to the UN, the deaths brought the number of peacekeepers killed in malicious acts worldwide since the beginning of 2026 to nine.
No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack. The identities of the gunmen and the motive behind the ambush remained unclear as investigations began.
South Sudan has continued to face serious security challenges despite years of international peacebuilding efforts. UNMISS patrols often operate in areas affected by intercommunal violence, armed youth groups and clashes involving different armed forces.
The attack in Jonglei State has once again highlighted the dangerous conditions faced by UN personnel working in the country. Peacekeepers are deployed to help protect civilians, monitor conflict and support efforts aimed at building long-term peace.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, also condemned the ambush and called for those responsible to be held accountable. The United Nations reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peace and protecting civilians in South Sudan despite the risks faced by its personnel.
As investigations continue, attention will remain focused on whether the attackers can be identified and prosecuted. The incident is also likely to renew calls for stronger protection for peacekeepers and humanitarian workers operating in some of Africa’s most volatile regions.
