Rwanda reiterated its commitment to a political resolution in eastern DRC amid escalating violence, particularly involving M23 rebels. The DRC government called for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and imposed sanctions on implicated officials. As clashes intensified near Goma, thousands fled the region, worsening the humanitarian crisis, with hospitals overwhelmed by casualties. M23 announced the closure of airspace over Goma, further escalating tensions. The UN reported over 400,000 displaced individuals this year alone.
Rwanda affirmed its commitment to finding a political resolution to the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where M23 rebels are engaged in combat with government forces. Heavy fighting around Goma was sparked by repeated cease-fire violations by the Congolese army and its allied forces, according to a statement from Rwanda’s Foreign Ministry. The ministry expressed concern over the misrepresentation of the conflict in various statements, emphasizing that misleading claims do not contribute to a solution.
During an emergency session of the UN Security Council, the DRC’s government demanded the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops from its territory and called for sanctions against implicated Rwandan officials. The humanitarian situation worsened as thousands of civilians fled the violence in the North Kivu region, particularly from Goma as clashes escalated. Reports indicated sporadic gunfire and civilian movement towards safer areas, including Rwanda.
According to local sources, several businesses in Goma were shut down as M23 rebels advanced, threatening to encircle the city. Although officials in the Rwandan border district of Rubavu reported no new refugee cases, there was an increase in travelers crossing from Goma. Many civilians were seeking refuge in schools and safer localities like Bweremana, Minova, and Kalungu, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis as documented by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Bruno Lemarquis, the humanitarian coordinator in Congo, expressed grave concerns regarding the intensifying conflict around Goma and its effects on civilians, noting that the displacement crisis had forced several hundred thousand individuals from their homes again. Goma’s Ndosho General Hospital had already exceeded its capacity, treating over 256 injured individuals due to the ongoing violence.
M23 rebels announced the closure of airspace over Goma, alleging that the Congolese government was utilizing the airport for military operations. Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame has denied the allegations of backing the M23 rebels. According to the UN refugee agency, the number of people displaced by the conflict has increased to over 400,000 this year, highlighting the urgency of international assistance and intervention.
The ongoing conflict between M23 rebels and government forces in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has stirred significant concern from neighboring Rwanda, which cites security threats due to the violence. The crisis has resulted in large-scale civilian displacements and humanitarian challenges, prompting calls for international intervention and a political dialogue to alleviate tensions. The situation remains fluid, with various parties involved expressing differing narratives regarding troop presence and regional stability.
The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to escalate, leading to severe humanitarian crises and international scrutiny. Rwanda has emphasized its commitment to a political solution while simultaneously addressing security threats from the ongoing violence near its border. The situation remains dire for many civilians who continue to suffer from the repercussions of the conflict, necessitating urgent action and international support to stabilize the region.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
