Rwanda-backed M23 rebels claimed to have captured Goma, DRC’s largest city, on January 27, 2024. The Congolese government condemned this move as a “declaration of war,” and the UN reported increasing panic among residents. Calls for ceasefire have been made by international powers, while fears grow of exacerbated humanitarian crises due to ongoing violence.
On January 27, 2024, M23 rebels, reportedly supported by Rwanda, announced their capture of Goma, the largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This assertion coincided with a declaration from the DRC government, labeling the rebel advance as a “declaration of war.” The United Nations reported severe panic among Goma’s population of 2 million and initiated evacuations as conditions worsened.
The M23’s ultimatum demanded the Congolese army surrender their weapons by a 48-hour deadline. As the deadline lapsed, the rebels urged Goma’s residents to remain calm, indicating assembly arrangements for the military at a central stadium. M23’s actions are feared to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in a region already heavily affected by conflict, as over 30% of North Kivu’s population is displaced.
The situation escalated with reports of Congolese soldiers surrendering on the city’s outskirts, amidst the backdrop of escalating violence. Patrick Muyaya, the Congolese government spokesman, emphasized the gravity of the situation in a video statement, highlighting the changing and dangerous circumstances for civilians. International calls for a ceasefire have also been issued by the United States and France.
UN peacekeepers noted that critical access points, including the airport, have been blocked, leading to severe limitations on evacuation efforts. The UN Security Council condemned the M23’s actions, calling for the withdrawal of the rebels from captured territories. The ongoing military conflict has become increasingly chaotic, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence.
Rwanda’s involvement has been emphasized by Congo’s foreign minister, who accused Rwanda of aggression, a claim Rwanda’s delegate neither confirmed nor denied. Despite Rwanda’s denial of support for M23 rebels, evidence collected suggests otherwise, reflecting long-standing tensions in the region. Following these developments, Congo severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda and expelled Rwandan diplomats due to escalating hostilities.
The new wave of violence bore tragic consequences, with multiple UN peacekeepers reported killed and additional personnel injured. UN officials continue to express alarm over the risks presented by the intensifying conflict. Humanitarian conditions remain dire as civilians attempt to flee into neighboring Rwanda amidst heavy ongoing gunfire.
The situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is characterized by decades of conflict primarily fueled by territorial disputes and the presence of various armed groups, including the M23, which has ties to the Rwandan military. The region is rich in minerals and has often been the center of geopolitical tensions involving neighboring countries. The current crisis reflects historical grievances and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to ensure regional stability and protect civilian lives.
The conflict unfolding in Goma, led by the M23 rebels and compounded by alleged Rwandan support, has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. With the DRC government designating the situation a declaration of war and international calls for peace emerging, the challenges faced by civilians continue to escalate. Immediate attention and action from the global community are paramount to mitigate further violence and address the urgent needs of affected populations.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
