The United Nations Security Council has strongly condemned a drone attack on a UN peacekeeping base in Sudan’s South Kordofan region that killed six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injured nine others. The attack, which occurred on December 13 at the Kadugli logistics base of the UN mission, was reportedly carried out by a separatist armed group.

In a statement issued Friday, the Council expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Bangladesh. It emphasized that attacks on UN personnel and facilities pose a serious threat to international peace and security and may constitute war crimes under international law. The Council urged that those responsible be held accountable without delay.

The statement also called for enhanced cooperation between Sudan and South Sudan to ensure the safety of peacekeepers and the stability of the region. Bangladesh, one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, has lost several personnel in similar attacks in recent years.