Amnesty International accused the Congolese army and M23 rebels of possible war crimes due to their attacks on civilian areas in eastern Congo. Over 150 instances of bombings resulted in over 100 civilian deaths and numerous injuries. Renewed violence has displaced over 237,000 people this year, exacerbating an already severe humanitarian crisis, with calls for an ICC investigation into these violations.
Amnesty International has raised serious allegations against the Congolese army and the M23 rebel group, accusing them of conducting bombings in civilian-populated regions that could be classified as war crimes. The rights organization reported that between January and July of the previous year, over 150 attacks involved unguided rockets and explosives, resulting in the deaths of over 100 civilians and many injuries. Amnesty is urging the International Criminal Court to initiate an investigation into these attacks.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, which has persisted for over three decades, is marked by significant human rights abuses and violations of humanitarian law. More than 237,000 individuals have been displaced due to renewed violence in the region since the beginning of 2023. The M23 group, one of approximately 100 armed factions in the mineral-rich area, continues to gain ground, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis that has already displaced more than 7 million people. Accusations of Rwandan support for M23 further complicate the geopolitical situation, with the United Nations estimating that up to 4,000 Rwandan troops may be present in Congo.
The allegations presented by Amnesty International highlight a troubling escalation in military violence in Congo’s eastern regions, potentially comprising war crimes perpetrated by both state and non-state actors. As the humanitarian crisis deepens with large-scale displacements and continued armed conflicts, international attention and intervention are increasingly crucial to address the violations and support affected communities. Investigative action by the International Criminal Court is warranted to uphold human rights and accountability in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
