Secretary-General Condemns Deadly Attack on Peacekeepers in Mali

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General António Guterres:

The Secretary-General condemns today's attacks against the United Nations Integrated Stabilization Mission for Mali (MINUSMA) in Timbuktu and Tessalit.

He is deeply saddened at the death of a Nigerian peacekeeper who succumbed to his wounds following the armed attack by unidentified assailants in Timbuktu. He expresses heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and to the Government of Nigeria.  He wishes a speedy recovery to another Nigerian peacekeeper who was wounded in the same attack.

He also wishes a swift recovery to three Chadian peacekeepers, who were wounded when their mine-protected vehicle hit an improvised explosive device in Tessalit, Kidal region.

The Secretary-General recalls that attacks targeting United Nations peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law.  He calls on the Malian authorities to take swift action to identify the perpetrators of these attacks and promptly bring them to justice.

The Secretary-General reaffirms the solidarity of United Nations with the people and the Government of Mali and its support to their quest for peace and stability.