The conflict in Goma, DRC, continues to escalate between Congolese forces and the M23 rebel group backed by Rwanda. UN officials report significant humanitarian crises with millions displaced and urgent needs for international intervention. The situation is described as volatile, with calls for immediate action to protect civilians and facilitate necessary humanitarian assistance.
Fighting continues to escalate in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly in the city of Goma, where the Rwanda-supported M23 rebel group confronts Congolese forces. The United Nations Chief of Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, described the crisis as “volatile and dangerous,” highlighting the urgent need for international attention. He reported that some UN staff had to seek shelter due to the ongoing violence, which has hindered their access to critical information about the evolving conflict.
Despite the challenges, peacekeepers remain firm in their positions, with essential personnel being relocated for safety. Mr. Lacroix emphasized that protecting civilians and disarming combatants according to humanitarian law is a priority for MONUSCO personnel. He stated, “The fate of the millions of civilians living in Goma or having been displaced is really the priority, along with the safety and security of UN personnel.”
Bruno Lemarquis, the UN Deputy Special Representative in the DRC, provided a somber update on the humanitarian situation. He noted that Goma, already facing a severe humanitarian crisis, is experiencing further distress due to escalating violence, having nearly 6.5 million displaced individuals nationwide. The city reports significant artillery fire impacting civilians and essential medical facilities, including a maternity hospital struck by shells, leading to casualties and distress amongst the affected.
In light of these developments, Mr. Lemarquis has called for temporary humanitarian pauses to facilitate civilian evacuations and aid delivery, stating, “We must act now to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of the people of Goma.” He painted a grim picture of the crisis, where hospitals are overwhelmed and basic services are failing, calling for urgent action to avert further suffering.
Mr. Lacroix discussed Rwanda’s involvement, affirming the deployment of Rwandan troops supporting the M23 faction. He condemned the tragic loss of three peacekeepers during the recent violence and reiterated the need for all parties to respect the safety of UN personnel. He emphasized focusing on immediate humanitarian efforts over political disputes rocketing from this crisis.
Both officials highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts, notably the East African Community’s scheduled summit and an African Union session, aiming to enhance regional peace initiatives. They underscored the necessity of international support, with Mr. Lemarquis acknowledging recent funding dedicated to humanitarian assistance in the region. Mr. Lacroix concluded with a call to action for the international community, stressing, “We must act now to prevent the bloodshed and to support the humanitarian response.”
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly around Goma, has drawn international concern due to the escalating violence between Congolese forces and the M23 rebel group, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda. The situation is compounded by an already dire humanitarian crisis with millions displaced. The UN’s presence and peacekeeping efforts are vital in addressing both the violence and the humanitarian needs of the affected populations.
The situation in Goma remains critical as fighting escalates and the humanitarian crisis deepens. The UN has underscored the importance of protecting civilians and the need for international intervention. Immediate action is required to prevent further loss of life and enhance humanitarian responses in the region. The international community must intensify efforts to support the DRC in this volatile time.
Original Source: news.un.org
