“The Secretary-General underscores that attacks targeting UN peacekeepers may constitute war crimes under international law,” said a statement issued yesterday by his office. “[He] calls for the perpetrators of this attack to be brought to justice,” it added.

Four other peacekeepers serving with the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) were also injured in yesterday's improvised explosive device attack against the convoy, south of Aguelhok, in Kidal region.

This incident follows a similar attack on 5 August that injured one peacekeeper in the vicinity of Kidal city.

In the statement, Ban reiterated that attacks against MINUSMA will not weaken the Mission's determination to fully implement its mandate in support of the efforts of the Malian Government, the parties to the peace agreement and the people of Mali to achieve lasting peace and stability.

It further noted that the UN chief reminded that the primary responsibility for peace lies with the Malian parties and urged them to continue to work to fully implement the provisions of the peace agreement and to do all they can to prevent such attacks.

The Secretary-General also extended his condolences to the family of the victim and the Government and people of Chad, and wished a speedy and full recovery to the injured.