28 August 2015 - The Security Council today called on all parties, with the help of the United Nations, to implement its recently signed peace accord and adhere to the permanent ceasefire.

“The Security Council acknowledges that this agreement is the first step in reversing the difficult political and economic situation, and humanitarian, and security catastrophe resulting from this crisis, calls upon the parties, with support from the United Nations and international community, to fully implement the Agreement,” the 15-member body declared in a press statement.

The deal – Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan -- towards ending the months-long crisis was signed by President Kiir two days ago. The Council expressed its concern with any statement by any party suggesting a lack of commitment to implement it.

The Council confirmed its intention to swiftly update the UNMISS mandate to support implementation of key tasks in the Agreement. It also expressed readiness to consider “appropriate measures to ensure full implementation of the Agreement…and address any violations or failures of any party to implement its provisions, including through the imposition of an arms embargo and additional targeted sanctions”.

The statement expressed deep appreciation for the work of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in leading mediation since the onset of the crisis.

It commended the recently expanded efforts of the "IGAD-Plus" configuration of 19 countries and organizations, including the United Nations, “to develop and achieve a comprehensive solution that has now established a foundation to deliver a peace to South Sudan”.

“The Security Council urges the continued close engagement of IGAD and IGAD-Plus partners in the critical period ahead,” the statement said.

The Council underscored the pressing need to ensure accountability for serious violations and abuses of human rights and serious violations of international humanitarian law.

It also further recognized the work of the African Union Commission of Inquiry in independent and public human rights monitoring, investigation and reporting, and anticipated with interest its findings and recommendations and encouraged the public release of the final report as soon as possible on South Sudan.