Escalation of Conflict in Congo: M23 Rebels Advance into Goma as Humanitarian Crises Worsen
Congo faces escalating conflict as Rwanda-supported M23 rebels advance into Goma. Gunfire and explosions were reported, reflecting fears among residents. The situation aggravates a severe humanitarian crisis with over six million displaced, prompting international condemnation and calls for renewal in peace talks.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing escalating violence as security forces combat Rwanda-supported M23 rebels advancing into Goma, a significant eastern city. Gunfire erupted overnight, leading to reports of explosions near the closed Goma airport. This region has seen one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, with over six million people displaced due to ongoing ethnic conflicts.
Goma, home to two million residents, is a critical trading and humanitarian center for the displaced population. M23, one of around 100 armed groups battling for control in this mineral-rich area, previously seized Goma in 2012 before retreating. The group resurfaced in late 2021 with alleged increased assistance from Rwanda, which the latter denies.
The rebel advance into Goma has sparked mixed reactions among local residents, with reports indicating both fear and celebration. A local resident described the distressing sounds of bomb explosions and gunfire, stating uncertainty regarding the city’s control. Additionally, three South African peacekeepers tragically lost their lives during the confrontation with the M23 rebels, increasing the death toll to 17 amidst the conflict.
Bruno Lemarquis, the United Nations humanitarian coordinator for Congo, highlighted the alarming humanitarian situation, reporting that active combat zones have disrupted civilian safety. Many people are fleeing violence, with the situation exacerbated by targeted attacks on hospitals, including Charité Maternelle, which injured numerous civilians, including vulnerable newborns and pregnant women.
The crisis in Goma compounds an already dire humanitarian situation, with 6.5 million displaced across the DRC. Aid groups face significant challenges in reaching those in dire need due to blocked roads and disrupted power and water supplies. David Munkley of World Vision stated that the city’s airport is no longer operational for evacuations or aid missions.
International condemnation has followed the escalation, with countries like the United States, United Kingdom, and France voicing disapproval towards Rwanda’s involvement. Meanwhile, Rwanda contends that Congo’s failure to adhere to previous peace agreements has necessitated its military posture. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the need to resume peace talks between the two nations.
Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi is expected to address the nation, while protests are erupting in the capital, Kinshasa, denouncing Rwanda’s role in the crisis. Opposition leader Martin Fayulu criticized the president’s response and urged international support against Rwanda, warning that Tshisekedi would bear responsibility for the nation’s decline should he fail to address the escalating situation.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has its roots in ethnic tensions that have persisted for decades, with numerous armed groups competing for influence in the resource-rich region. The M23 rebels, appearing again in late 2021, have resumed hostilities, leading to severe humanitarian consequences for local populations. As international pressure mounts regarding Rwanda’s alleged involvement in supporting these rebels, the situation in Goma remains precarious, with fears that the conflict could spiral further out of control, impacting millions in an already fragile humanitarian landscape.
In summary, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is grappling with significant violence as M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, advance into Goma, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. As conflict escalates, the international community has condemned the actions taken and urged for peace negotiations to resume. The need for humanitarian aid is urgent, yet access to those in need remains severely hindered, necessitating immediate attention to ensure the safety and well-being of affected civilians.
Original Source: apnews.com
