United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the killing of a Tunisian peacekeeper in the Central African Republic (CAR), calling it a potential war crime. The attack took place on February 11 near the village of Zobassinda, in the Bamingui-Bangoran prefecture. An unidentified armed assailant targeted peacekeepers during a long-range patrol aimed at protecting civilians.
The peacekeeper was part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), a UN operation launched in 2014 to protect civilians, support peace efforts, and stabilize the conflict-ridden nation.
In a statement, Guterres expressed his “deepest condolences” to the family of the fallen peacekeeper, as well as to the Tunisian government and its people. He stressed that attacks on UN peacekeepers are unacceptable and may violate international law.
“The Secretary-General urges Central African authorities to act quickly to identify and bring the attackers to justice,” the statement said. Guterres also reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in CAR.
The Tunisian peacekeeper was part of a contingent deployed after the Tunisian parliament approved the mission in July 2021. UN peacekeeping forces are made up of troops from member states chosen for their neutrality and ability to work impartially in conflict zones. Their role includes protecting civilians, delivering humanitarian aid, and helping create conditions for long-term peace.
The killing highlights the ongoing risks faced by UN personnel in conflict areas, where they often work in dangerous and unpredictable conditions. Despite these challenges, peacekeepers remain dedicated to their mission of protecting civilians and promoting peace. The UN has repeatedly warned that attacks on peacekeepers are serious crimes that must be punished.
This tragic event is a reminder of the sacrifices made by peacekeepers in their efforts to bring stability to war-torn regions. It also underscores the need for continued international support for peacekeeping missions and the importance of ensuring the safety of those who serve under the UN flag.
As investigations into the attack continue, the international community is watching closely, hoping for swift justice and a renewed focus on protecting those who risk their lives to uphold peace in one of the world’s most fragile regions.