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UN passes resolution threatening sanctions on Sudans
The UN Security Council has threatened to impose sanctions on Sudan and South Sudan if the two nations fail to halt the recent violence.
The unanimously backed resolution calls on Khartoum and Juba to resume negotiations on disputed issues within two weeks.
Fighting in recent weeks has raised fears of a return to all-out war.
South Sudan became independent last year, but disputes with the north over territorial issues remained unresolved.
Earlier, Sudan said it has restarted pumping oil from Heglig, following the recent withdrawal of Southern Sudanese troops.
‘On the brink’
The US-drafted resolution backs an African Union roadmap which aims to settle the conflict and bring the two countries back to the negotiating table.
It calls for both countries to unconditionally withdraw troops to their own territory and “immediately cease all hostilities”. Both nations must give a written commitment to halt fighting within 48 hours.
It also demands a resumption of talks over outstanding issues within two weeks, with an agreement to be reached within three months.
If either side fails to abide by the terms, then “additional measures” under Article 41 of the UN Charter - which allows for non-military sanctions - will be considered, the resolution says.
Pictured: Recent cross-border fighting between Sudan and South Sudan has raised fears of war
