M23 rebels claim to have captured Goma amid escalating violence, prompting UN Security Council condemnation of external interference and calls for troop withdrawals. Kenya has facilitated a summit between DRC and Rwanda to address the crisis. Numerous soldiers from international peacekeeping missions have been killed, and the humanitarian situation worsens as civilians flee the conflict.
The M23 rebel group claims to have captured the strategically significant city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They announced their takeover shortly before a self-imposed deadline for the Congolese army to surrender expired. Amidst this claim, gunfire was reported in Goma, indicating intense fighting had continued as the M23 advances towards the city.
The UN Security Council has condemned these actions, highlighting a ‘flagrant disregard’ for Congolese sovereignty and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. They stressed the need for external forces supporting M23 to withdraw from the region. The Council also expressed concern over GPS jamming activities that appeared to aid the rebels’ operations.
In response to the escalating crisis, Kenya has facilitated an agreement for a summit between DRC and Rwanda to address the ongoing conflict. Kenyan President William Ruto stated that discussions would focus on finding a resolution to the situation within 48 hours, signaling regional involvement.
The conflict has seen significant military engagement, with reports indicating that soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay have lost their lives in the fighting. Additionally, DRC has accused Rwanda of escalating the conflict by sending troops across the border, prompting calls for targeted sanctions against Rwandan officials.
As the situation grows tenser, Goma’s international airport has been evacuated and flights suspended due to combat in the vicinity. UN officials have warned their staff to avoid the airport and are temporarily relocating nonessential personnel amid chaos in the area. This humanitarian crisis has sparked deep concern as thousands of civilians flee the conflict zone.
The United Nations Secretary General has urged Rwanda to withdraw its forces supporting M23, condemning the actions of the rebel group. He pleaded for immediate cessation of hostilities and emphasized the dire humanitarian impact, calling for actions to protect civilians caught in the violence as the conflict worsens in eastern DRC.
The M23 group comprises predominantly ethnic Tutsis who previously broke away from the Congolese army. While they assert claims of representation and protection for their community, the group has faced accusations of receiving support from Rwanda in its armed offensives. The region has a history of instability, largely influenced by ethnic conflicts and external interventions, complicating lasting peace efforts.
The situation in eastern DRC, particularly in Goma, remains dire as M23 rebels advance amid intense fighting, resulting in civilian displacement and military casualties. The UN and regional leaders are trying to address the escalating tensions. The call for both M23 and Rwandan forces to withdraw remains a critical point in seeking a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Original Source: www.dw.com
