The UN reported that the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains tense yet calmer amidst ongoing conflict in Goma between M23 rebels and government forces. While peacekeeping patrols are planned to ensure civilian protection, protests have led to closed main roads and empty supermarkets due to fears of looting. UN peacekeepers face attacks, raising concerns about their safety and operational capabilities, while the humanitarian response remains significantly hindered.
The United Nations reported on Wednesday that while the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains tense, it is also calmer. Fighting continues in Goma between M23 rebels and government forces, as evidenced by sporadic shooting despite an overall reduction in hostilities. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric emphasized that the protection of UN personnel and civilians is the primary focus of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in Congo (MONUSCO).
Dujarric announced that peacekeepers would conduct patrols in Goma to evaluate conditions and resupply efforts. He noted the calm in Goma amidst planned protests, with reports indicating empty main roads and closed supermarkets due to looting concerns. Protesters accused embassies of supporting Rwanda, which they hold responsible for backing the M23 rebels.
During the briefing, Dujarric acknowledged the sacrifice of UN peacekeepers, stating that 22 have been injured due to conflict-related incidents with the M23 rebels, and described attacks on peacekeepers as unacceptable and potentially constituting a war crime. Additionally, he reported ongoing violence and looting of humanitarian warehouses, which hinders aid efforts and puts humanitarian workers at risk.
Due to the violence, Goma’s airport remains closed, halting the flow of humanitarian supplies and personnel. M23 rebels recently asserted control over eastern Goma, which is strategically significant and rich in valuable minerals. Areas under both government and rebel control have seen casualties, with at least 25 reported deaths in Goma and nine in Rwanda, amidst ongoing clashes.
The M23 rebels’ efforts are believed to be motivated by desires to exploit eastern Congo’s vast mineral resources while addressing grievances over alleged discrimination against Tutsi communities. The Congolese government accuses the M23 of external destabilization, particularly with alleged assistance from Rwanda.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has faced ongoing conflict, particularly in Goma, where control has fluctuated between government forces and the M23 rebel group. The region is rich in resources like coltan and gold, critical for global industries. The M23 rebels, purportedly supported by Rwanda, frame their fight as a response to grievances regarding discrimination against minorities. International attention remains high as protests emerge against foreign embassies perceived as complicit in regional instability. The United Nations maintains a peacekeeping mission in Congo, which continually assesses the situation and conducts patrols to safeguard civilians and personnel. Recent escalations have heightened calls for protest against perceived foreign involvement, impacting local stability and humanitarian efforts. The area’s strategic significance further complicates the conflict, drawing in various stakeholder interests. The conflict has resulted in civilian casualties and injuries among UN peacekeepers, raising concerns over violence against those tasked with maintaining order and providing humanitarian assistance. Reports highlight ongoing looting and unrest, particularly in essential zones like Goma, where humanitarian operations are crucial.
In summary, the UN has described the current state of the Democratic Republic of Congo as simultaneously tense and calmer. Despite observable peacekeeping efforts and reduced fighting in Goma, protests and accusations against foreign embassies are contributing to instability. The ongoing conflict significantly impacts humanitarian access and safety for civilians and peacekeepers alike, underscoring the complexities of the situation in eastern Congo.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr