Secretary-General Strongly Condemns Deadly, Complex Attack on Peacekeepers at United Nations Camp in Mali

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

The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest terms the complex attack undertaken today by armed elements, against the camp of the United Nations Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) in Aguelhok, Kidal region.  As a result of the attack four peacekeepers from the Chadian contingent were killed and 19 others were injured.  He commends the courage and bravery of the peacekeepers who robustly repelled the attack.

The Secretary-General conveys his heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Chad and extends his profound sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims.  He wishes a swift recovery to the injured.

The Secretary-General recalls that attacks targeting peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law and that sanctions can be applied against those responsible.  He calls on the Malian authorities to spare no effort in identifying and promptly holding to account the perpetrators of this heinous attack.

The Secretary-General reiterates the solidarity of the United Nations with the people and Government of the Republic of Mali in their quest for peace.