M23 rebels have claimed control of Goma, DR Congo, prompting violence and a declaration of war from the DRC government against Rwanda. Amidst panic among civilians and international appeals for peace, tensions escalate with Rwanda accused of backing M23. The UNSC calls for the withdrawal of external forces while DRC cuts ties with Rwanda and demands sanctions. The conflict raises fears of worsening humanitarian crises in a historically volatile region.
The M23 rebel group asserted its control over Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), amid escalating violence, following claims of a ‘declaration of war’ from the DRC government against Rwanda. Gunfire erupted in parts of Goma shortly after the rebels made their announcement, coinciding with a United Nations (UN) Security Council appeal for an end to hostilities. Witnesses reported seeing rebels infiltrating the city center, heightening global concern over the situation.
The M23 declaration came just before a deadline for the Congolese military to surrender, as the rebels called for calm among Goma’s residents, which number two million. There are fears that the resurgence of armed conflict could reignite a region plagued by instability and humanitarian crises. The UN has described the developments as creating ‘mass panic’ within the city and surrounding areas.
In response to the M23 advance, the DRC severed diplomatic relations with Rwanda and requested UN intervention to impose sanctions on Rwanda, prompting international concerns about escalating violence. These events follow ongoing fighting between the Congolese army, UN peacekeepers, and M23 rebels near Goma, where smoldering tensions rooted in regional rivalries and ethnic disputes endure.
DRC officials, including spokesman Patrick Muyaya, underscored the urgent need to protect civilians by declaring the country is in a ‘war situation.’ Amid these developments, Kenyan authorities have arranged for a summit, urging DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame to work towards peace. Their situation is aggravated by reports of Rwandan troop deployments into eastern DRC, with the DRC calling these movements a blatant violation of its sovereignty.
Kigali, however, has countered accusations from Kinshasa, insisting that its military measures are necessary for national security due to ongoing threats near the border. The UN Security Council has urged the withdrawal of all external forces from the conflict zone without naming specific nations. Following these tumultuous events, about a dozen foreign peacekeepers have reportedly lost their lives in increasing clashes.
The conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has deep historical roots, resulting in prolonged instability marked by ethnic disputes and armed militia violence. The region, rich in minerals, has seen varying factions vie for control, exacerbated by foreign involvement, particularly from Rwanda. The resurgence of conflict involving the M23 rebels signifies a critical moment that could further destabilize the region, already recognized as one of the most challenging humanitarian crises globally.
The situation in Goma reflects a dangerous escalation involving the M23 rebels and the DRC government, accompanied by accusations of Rwandan support for the insurgents. As the international community calls for de-escalation and the protection of civilians, it remains crucial for regional leaders to engage in dialogues to address long-standing grievances and foster peace. The consequences of inaction may threaten broader regional stability and humanitarian conditions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
