M23 rebels reportedly backed by Rwanda have seized control of Goma, prompting panic among residents and a condemnation from the Congolese government, which declared the situation a war. The conflict threatens to displace more civilians amid escalating violence. The situation has attracted international calls for a ceasefire, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian support and resolution of the crisis.
M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have claimed control over Goma, eastern Congo’s major city, amid escalating tensions. The announcement followed their ultimatum for Congolese forces to surrender, prompting widespread panic among residents. The rebel advance threatens to worsen the humanitarian crisis in North Kivu, already exacerbated by ongoing violence and displacement of over one-third of its population. In response, the Congolese government condemned the attack as a declaration of war and severed ties with Rwanda, blaming them for the conflict’s escalation.
Following warnings of chaos, Congolese military personnel began surrendering near Goma. UN peacekeepers reported a chaotic scene as armed soldiers sought refuge, struggling with increasing violence and a lack of safe zones. The UN Special Representative for Congo reported mass panic and a deteriorating situation around Goma. Meanwhile, casualties among UN peacekeepers highlighted the escalating violence as hostilities intensified during the rebel push into the city.
The United States and France have called for a ceasefire and urged Rwanda to withdraw its support for the rebels. The situation remains tense as Congo accuses Rwanda of backing the M23, further straining diplomatic relations. Consequences of the violence have been severe, with multiple peacekeepers killed and civilians displaced, emphasizing the dire need for intervention and support in the region. The threat of Goma becoming a battleground looms, raising alarms for the safety of the urban population.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has been fueled by the presence of numerous armed groups, primarily fighting for control over the region’s rich mineral resources. The M23, formed by former members of the Congolese army, is among the most active rebels and has garnered accusations of foreign support, particularly from Rwanda. The struggle has led to significant humanitarian crises, including mass displacements and a precarious living situation for the local population, necessitating UN involvement and peacekeeping missions.
The recent advancements by M23 rebels in Goma indicate a significant escalation in the conflict, impacting the safety and stability of the region. The Congolese government’s actions to sever ties with Rwanda and call for assistance highlight the severity of the situation. With the threat of increased violence and humanitarian crises looming, prompt international attention is required to address the issues afflicting eastern Congo.
Original Source: www.newspressnow.com
