Outraged by Killing of Three World Food Programme Staff Members in Sudan, Secretary-General Calls for Thorough Investigation

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

The Secretary-General is outraged by the killing of three World Food Programme (WFP) staff members in Sudan on 19 December, when the agency’s field office in Yabus, in Blue Nile State, was hit by aerial bombardment.

He sends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and their WFP colleagues.

The Secretary-General condemns all attacks on UN and aid personnel and facilities.  He calls for a thorough investigation.

Yesterday’s incident underscores the devastating toll that Sudan’s brutal conflict is having on millions of people in need and the humanitarians trying to reach them with life-saving assistance.

2024 is the deadliest year on record for aid workers in Sudan.  Yet, despite significant threats to their personal safety, they continue to do all they can to provide vital support wherever it is needed.

The Secretary-General calls on the parties to adhere to their obligations to protect civilians, including aid personnel, as well as humanitarian premises and supplies. Attacks must not be directed against them and all feasible precautions must be taken to avoid harming them.

After more than 20 months of conflict in Sudan, the Secretary-General once again stresses the need for an immediate ceasefire.  The United Nations will continue to back international mediation efforts and work with all relevant stakeholders to help bring an end to the war.