By No. 1 Citizen
United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has extended the mandate of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) until November 15, 2025.
The decision, adopted in Resolution 2760 (2024), maintains UNISFA’s authorized troop and police ceilings and initiates a strategic review of its effectiveness and alignment with the evolving regional security landscape.
The resolution also extends UNISFA’s original tasks and its mandate modification, which supports the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism.
The Council strongly urged the Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities to fully support UNISFA’s mandate, ensure its freedom of movement, and facilitate the provision of essential supplies.
The UNSC condemned the presence of South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and other South Sudanese security personnel in the Abyei area, demanding their immediate withdrawal.
The Council reaffirmed UNISFA’s mandate to protect civilians and take necessary actions to address threats, regardless of their source.
The resolution requests the UN Secretary-General to provide analysis, strategic assessment, and advice on UNISFA’s impact. A strategic review of the Force is scheduled for August 15, 2025.
Diplomatic reactions
China’s representative emphasized UNISFA’s crucial role in maintaining regional stability and expressed hope for strengthened cooperation between the UN and the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan.
However, China abstained from the vote, citing differences in the draft resolution.
“It is not conducive to enhancing consensus among all parties or promoting the unity of the Council,” the statement quoted.
Mozambique, speaking on behalf of Algeria, Guyana, and Sierra Leone, acknowledged UNISFA’s vital role in promoting peace and stability in Abyei.
The representative stressed the need for strong support from Sudan and South Sudan to ensure UNISFA’s effective implementation of its mandate.
Russia expressed regret over the inclusion of elements in the resolution that it deemed unrelated to the regional situation.
The Russian Federation abstained from the vote, citing concerns about the penholder’s approach and the legitimacy of certain governments.