The Sudanese government has been blamed for Thursday’s bombing near a refugee camp in South Sudan. U.N. peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous said at least two bombs were dropped from planes apparently operated by Sudan’s Armed Forces. The explosions occurred close to the Yida refugee camp where more than 20,000 people are gathered after fleeing violence in Sudan’s border states.
Local reports say 12 people were killed, but Ladsous said the number of causalities is not yet known. The bombing was condemned by the U.N. and the United States.
"We are very concerned that these bombs were dropped in an area where there are thousands of refugees who have gathered after fleeing the violence in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile states," said a spokesperson for U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. "It is essential that both parties immediately take all steps to protect civilian lives."
"The United States demands the Government of Sudan halt aerial bombardments immediately. We urge the Government of South Sudan to exercise restraint in responding to this provocation to prevent further escalation of hostilities,” the White House said in a statement.
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