Statement by the Secretary-General – on the drone attacks targeting Abyei
I strongly condemn the drone attacks in the Abyei area on 19 October that killed dozens of civilians, including women and children, near Amiet Market and Todach, and injured many others. The toll is expected to rise as the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) continues to verify casualties, with many missing. I express my deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wish a swift recovery to the injured.
In the aftermath of the attack, UNISFA deployed medical personnel, firefighting capabilities and quick reaction forces to provide emergency treatment, support casualty evacuation, and prevent the fire from spreading.
Attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited under international law. I remind that all parties to the armed conflict must comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law, including to respect and protect civilians at all times. There will need to be accountability. I call on the Governments of South Sudan and Sudan to take all steps possible to help prevent further attacks and uphold Abyei's demilitarized status.
New York, 20 October 2026
