The city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo is on the brink of falling to Rwandan-backed M23 forces, who have seized control of the airport after three days of intense fighting causing over 100 deaths and nearly 1,000 injuries. This escalation arises amid a deep-rooted conflict influenced by the legacy of the Rwandan genocide, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis and international protests against foreign embassies in the capital, Kinshasa.
An armed group with support from Rwandan forces has captured the airport in Goma, a significant city in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following violent skirmishes that have resulted in over 100 fatalities and nearly 1,000 injuries within three days. The Tutsi-led M23 group has gained ground in eastern DRC, leaving the Congolese army increasingly overwhelmed as they lose territory in the resource-rich North Kivu province. The situation intensified after M23 fighters invaded central Goma, prompting widespread chaos with ongoing street battles, leading to many casualties and a severe humanitarian emergency.
The control of Goma’s airport by the M23 represents a significant defeat for Congolese forces. Reports indicate that more than 1,200 Congolese soldiers have surrendered, now confined to a UN mission base. Following this rapid offensive, the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, a region historically affected by the Rwandan genocide, is escalating humanitarian issues such as food shortages and the potential spread of diseases.
As Goma was inundated with violence, many residents fled, with individuals like Destin Jamaica Kela recounting harrowing experiences of bombs and bodies in the streets. Meanwhile, protests erupted in Kinshasa against foreign embassies, including those of Rwanda and the United States, resulting in the tactic of violence towards foreign representations. Notably, the US Embassy has since advised its citizens to leave DRC amid the unrest.
The International Committee of the Red Cross is struggling to assist overwhelmed hospitals and cautioned against the risk of disease outbreaks due to the current crisis. The United Nations has documented alarming cases of ethnically charged violence and urged the end of hostilities to prevent a further spiral into ethnic conflict. Amid this turmoil, the African Union has called for the M23 to disarm, while the DRC holds Rwanda accountable for seeking benefits from its mineral resources despite Rwanda’s denials of such claims.
Amid escalating tensions, a report confirmed casualties, including 17 peacekeepers killed in the clashes as regional efforts such as a crisis summit were announced, featuring discussions between DRC’s leadership and Rwanda. Historical context reveals the M23’s previous occupation of Goma in 2012, and its resurgence has threatened any semblance of stability, particularly following the failure of earlier ceasefires and peace talks.
The ongoing crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically in the city of Goma, is deeply rooted in historical tensions stemming from the Rwandan genocide. The M23 group, initially active in 2012, resurfaced in late 2021 and has since been engaged in armed conflict over territorial control. This region is rich in minerals, making it a focal point of international interest, but also a battleground for various armed factions, leading to severe humanitarian consequences.
The situation in Goma illustrates a critical escalation in the conflict in the eastern DRC, where Rwandan-backed forces have intensified their claims to territory, undermining local and international stability. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, with significant casualties and a desperate need for assistance. Global responses, including protests and diplomatic engagements, reflect the international concern for peace and security in the region, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to address these complex challenges.
Original Source: www.wfxg.com
