Secretary-General condemns attack on UN compound in Mogadishu, calls violation of humanitarian law

Tuesday attack against the United Nation in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu is highly being condemned by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. He said that intentionally attacking UN personnel may constitute 'a violation of international humanitarian law.'

Seven mortars landed inside the compound, injuring two UN staff members and one contractor. None of the injuries is life-threatening. António Guterres wished the injured a speedy recovery and urged the Somali authorities to investigate the attacks and swiftly bring those responsible to justice.

The Secretary-General reaffirmed that such acts will not diminish the strong resolve of the United Nations to continue supporting the people and Government of Somalia in their efforts to build peace and stability in the country. Meanwhile, Nicholas Haysom, his Special Representative in the country and head of the Assistance Mission UNSOM, condemned the attack in the strongest possible terms.

Deploring the "unwarranted act of aggression against our personnel," Nicholas Haysom stressed that "no political agenda can be served through violence that deliberately targets staff members of international organizations who are supporting the consolidation of peace and the strengthening of governing institutions in Somalia."

The unfolding news reports detailed that on Monday, the UN diplomat wrote the Somali government a letter asking it, among other things, to explain the legal basis for arresting Mukhtar Robow, the former al-Shabaab deputy leader who was the main challenger in the South West State elections for regional presidency, as reported by UN News.