The city of Goma in the DRC faces imminent threat as M23 rebels advance, causing tens of thousands to flee. Accusations of Rwandan troop involvement have heightened tensions, prompting calls for ceasefires from regional leaders. The UN demands the withdrawal of foreign forces and an end to violence against civilians and peacekeepers amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a crisis has unfolded as the rebel group M23 methodically approaches the city of Goma. The conflict has prompted a mass exodus from surrounding towns, with local media reporting sounds of gunfire and explosions in Goma, a city with over a million inhabitants. A representative of M23 declared their intention to take control of Goma imminently.
Tensions escalated following accusations from the DRC’s foreign minister, who contended that Rwanda has initiated war by sending troops to support the M23 rebels. In contrast, Rwanda claims that Congo is backing groups striving for regime change in Rwanda. In response, Kenya has intervened, urging for a ceasefire and facilitating an emergency summit with the leaders of DRC and Rwanda.
The ongoing violence in eastern DRC, particularly in the provinces of North and South Kivu, has resulted in significant displacement, with over 400,000 individuals fleeing their homes this year alone, as reported by the UN refugee agency. The M23 group, active since 2021, has rapidly expanded its territory within this resource-rich region. The international community, including the United Nations and various nations, is calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a withdrawal of foreign troops from DRC territory. Humanitarian access has become increasingly difficult, with vital roads blocked and Goma’s airport rendered unusable for evacuations. The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has emphasized the urgent need for the withdrawal of Rwandan forces and for the M23 rebels to cease all hostilities, underscoring the dangerous implications of the ongoing conflict for both local populations and peacekeeping operations.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is dire as M23 rebels intensify their assault on Goma, leading to extensive civilian displacement and a humanitarian crisis. Accusations of external intervention by Rwanda exacerbate tensions in the region. The international community is pressuring both the rebel group and foreign nations to halt their military activities to promote peace and security in the area. Effective and swift resolution efforts are critical to prevent further bloodshed and displacement.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
