The UN Security Council demanded Sudan to immediately stop launching air raids into South Sudan and is considering 'additonal steps' in the coming days to prevent the escalation of clashes into war.

Officials told the UNSC that air strikes in Unity state on Monday killed 16 people and injured dozens of others along with causing massive damage to infrastructure.

US ambassador to the UN Susan Rice said the Council welcomed the withdrawal of the South Sudanese army from Heglig and demanded an immediate end to Sudanese aerial bombardment over the border.

She also urged for an immediate ceasefire and for both parties to return to the negotiating table to avoid escalation.