Two United Nations peacekeepers were killed and seven others injured after unidentified gunmen ambushed a UN patrol in South Sudan’s eastern Jonglei state, the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) said.

The attack occurred Monday as a UNMISS patrol was traveling toward Pajut, a remote area of Jonglei state.

Following the ambush, UNMISS immediately deployed a quick reaction force to secure the area and assist with the emergency response.

The seven injured included three UN peacekeepers, two members of the South Sudan National Police Service and two civilian staff members, according to the mission.

UNMISS has not identified the attackers or provided information on a possible motive. Authorities are expected to investigate the incident and determine those responsible.

UNMISS chief Anita Kiki Gbeho condemned the attack and expressed condolences to the families and colleagues of those killed and injured.

“Such deadly violence targeting UNMISS personnel who are serving to support peace in South Sudan is unacceptable,” Gbeho said.

She called on the relevant authorities to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The UN mission also warned that attacks deliberately targeting UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law.

The attack comes as South Sudan's already fragile peace process faces renewed challenges.

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after decades of civil war. However, the world's youngest country was plunged into another devastating conflict in 2013 following a political dispute between President Salva Kiir and his then deputy, Riek Machar.

Although a peace agreement was reached in 2018, political tensions and sporadic violence have continued to threaten the country's stability.

UNMISS was established following South Sudan's independence and is mandated to protect civilians, facilitate humanitarian access, monitor and report human rights violations, and support the country's peace process and political transition.

The latest attack also highlights the increasingly dangerous environment facing humanitarian personnel in South Sudan.

UN agencies say at least 36 humanitarian workers have been killed in the country since the beginning of the year, already exceeding the 31 humanitarian workers killed throughout 2025.

The UN has repeatedly warned that attacks against humanitarian personnel and peacekeepers not only endanger lives but also restrict the delivery of desperately needed assistance to vulnerable communities.

A UN spokesperson said attacks against humanitarian workers are unacceptable and constitute violations of international humanitarian law.

As South Sudan struggles with political instability, armed violence and a severe humanitarian situation, the UN has urged all parties to respect international law and ensure the safety of peacekeepers, aid workers and civilians. (ILKHA)