At least 13 peacekeepers have died in clashes with M23 rebels in the DRC. The rebels encircle Goma, prompting the DRC to sever ties with Rwanda, accused of supporting the insurgents. The ongoing conflict is part of a larger humanitarian crisis, with historical tensions among numerous armed groups and significant international peacekeeping efforts in place.
In recent clashes in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), at least 13 foreign peacekeepers have tragically lost their lives while confronting M23 rebels, according to United Nations officials. The M23 rebel group has gained considerable ground in eastern DRC, surrounding the critical city of Goma, which is home to approximately two million inhabitants and serves as a vital center for regional security and humanitarian operations.
The M23 group, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis who defected from the Congolese army over a decade ago, is one of around 100 armed factions competing for control in this mineral-rich region, which has been the site of one of the globe’s most severe humanitarian crises. The DRC government has accused neighboring Rwanda of backing the M23 insurgency, resulting in the severance of diplomatic relations.
Rwanda has refuted these allegations yet acknowledged deploying troops and missile systems within eastern Congo, citing security concerns due to an increase in Congolese forces near its border. A Congolese military source stated, “Rwanda is trying to get in by all means, but we are holding firm,” emphasizing the ongoing nature of the conflict.
In response to the escalation, the DRC has recalled its diplomats from Rwanda and requested the cessation of all Rwandan diplomatic and consular operations in Kinshasa. A UN Security Council meeting, initially scheduled for the following day, has been moved up to address the escalating violence. This urgency follows the death of a Congolese military governor during a recent M23 offensive.
Moreover, the Congolese army, aided by allied forces including UN troops, reported repelling an M23 attack towards Goma. A damaged UN armoured vehicle was located on the road between Goma and Sake, illustrating the intensity of the conflict. The fatalities among peacekeepers include nine South Africans, three Malawians, and one Uruguayan, as fighting surges in the region.
Decades of internal strife in eastern DRC, driven by competition for land and resources among various armed groups, have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands and displaced more than seven million individuals. Notably, militias such as the Cooperative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) contribute to the ongoing hostilities.
The UN peacekeeping mission has operated within the DRC for over twenty years, currently deploying approximately 14,000 personnel. The peacekeepers are widely recognized by their blue helmets, often referred to as the Blue Helmets, which symbolize their commitment to maintaining peace in this volatile region.
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) primarily revolves around various armed groups vying for control over rich mineral resources within the region. The M23 rebel group, composed largely of ethnic Tutsis, has been a significant player in this ongoing struggle, particularly in eastern DRC, where much of the violence is concentrated. The humanitarian crisis resulting from these conflicts has been severe, leading to extensive loss of life and widespread displacement of civilians over recent decades. The involvement of foreign peacekeepers under the UN banner highlights the international community’s attempt to restore order amid the turmoil.
In summary, the recent clashes in the DRC have resulted in the deaths of at least 13 foreign peacekeepers amidst ongoing violence with M23 rebels. The DRC’s diplomatic ties with Rwanda have been severed due to accusations of support for the rebels, while the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, affecting millions. The presence of UN peacekeepers underlines the ongoing international efforts to stabilize the region, yet the cycle of conflict persists with devastating consequences for the local population.
Original Source: news.sky.com
