António Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire from the M23 rebel group advancing towards Goma in the DRC, amid growing humanitarian concerns. The offensive has displaced over 178,000 people and threatens wider regional conflict. M23 has captured strategic towns, intensifying fears and casualties as Congolese forces respond.
António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, has expressed grave concern regarding the M23 rebel group’s offensive towards Goma, the largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The recent aggression has resulted in the displacement of over 178,000 individuals within the last two weeks. Guterres urged the M23 to cease its military actions immediately, emphasizing the severe impact on civilians and the potential for escalating regional conflict.
M23’s forces have swiftly advanced over recent weeks, surrounding Goma while engaging in combat with the Congolese army. Earlier this month, several towns, including Minova and Sake, fell under the control of the rebels, intensifying fears among the populace. The conflict has led to reports of explosions heard from the outskirts of Goma, and hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties from the clashes.
Thousands have attempted to escape the violence, fleeing towards Goma with their belongings. The Congolese military has been reinforced with helicopter gunships and troop deployments aimed at countering the rebel offensive. Amidst the chaos, harrowing accounts from displaced individuals depict the brutal reality of the conflict, with witnesses recounting severe injuries and loss of life.
The prolonged instability in the DRC, fueled by inter-regional conflicts and armed groups, has resulted in extensive humanitarian crises, claiming approximately six million lives and displacing over seven million people since 1998. M23, comprised of former members of the Congolese army, has engaged in this ongoing struggle, controlling vital resources and income streams in eastern DRC.
Accusations have been directed towards Rwanda for its alleged support of the M23 group, with reports suggesting a significant presence of Rwandan troops operating alongside them. International observers and experts have indicated that Rwanda’s involvement renders it accountable for the actions of M23. Guterres reaffirmed the need for all parties to uphold the territorial integrity of the DRC and to halt any form of support for armed groups.
The M23 rebel group has emerged as a prominent insurgent faction in the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC, a region plagued by violence and instability over the past few decades. The DRC has faced chronic insecurity fueled by numerous armed groups, regional tensions, and political turmoil, leading to vast humanitarian crises marked by mass displacements and significant loss of life. The M23, largely composed of Tutsi fighters, has become a key player in this vicious cycle, controlling lucrative natural resources and receiving alleged backing from neighboring Rwanda, complicating the conflict further and prompting international calls for peace and stability in the region.
In summary, António Guterres has called for an immediate halt to the M23 rebel group’s offensive, highlighting the dire humanitarian consequences of their actions in the DRC. The ongoing conflict underscores a severe regional instability, exacerbated by external influences and internal strife. Addressing the humanitarian crisis and ensuring the protection of civilians in the DRC remain urgent priorities.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
