UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the M23 conflict in eastern Congo may escalate into a regional war following the group’s recent capture of Sake. The conflict has caused significant displacement and violence, with accusations against Rwanda for allegedly supporting the rebels. The UN calls for respect for Congo’s sovereignty and an end to support for armed groups, emphasizing the urgent need for attention to this humanitarian crisis.
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating conflict involving the M23 group in eastern Congo, highlighting that it poses a significant risk of inciting a regional war. This warning follows the recent capture of the strategic town of Sake by M23 rebels, which has intensified the ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Since the beginning of this year, fighting has intensified in DRC’s mineral-rich eastern regions, where the Tutsi-led M23 group has expanded its territorial control. This situation has led to a significant increase in the number of displaced persons seeking refuge from the violence. The UN and Congolese authorities have accused neighboring Rwanda of supporting the M23 insurgency, a claim that Rwanda firmly denies.
UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric has noted that this military offensive inflicted a heavy toll on civilians and has exacerbated the threat of broader conflict. He emphasized the necessity for all parties to recognize the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and cease any support for armed groups. Recently, M23 fighters have made further advances, particularly with their takeover of Sake, located approximately 20 kilometers from Goma, the eastern region’s largest city.
Despite requests for comments on Sake’s situation, the Congolese army spokesman did not respond. Nevertheless, the UN’s condemnation of Sake’s seizure indicates a surge in threats towards Goma, which faced a similar crisis during a past rebellion in 2012. At that time, the M23 briefly overtook Goma; however, they now maintain greater control over the region than previously.
The conflict in eastern Congo has a long-standing history characterized by various insurgent groups vying for control over mineral-rich territories. The M23 group, predominantly composed of Tutsi fighters, has been engaged in an armed struggle against the Congolese government. Accusations of external influence, particularly from Rwanda, have compounded the conflict, with regional dynamics often exacerbating local grievances. The situation has led to significant humanitarian challenges, including mass displacements and civilian casualties, calling for urgent international attention and intervention.
In summary, the escalating conflict led by the M23 group in eastern Congo poses an increasing threat not only to the local populace but also to regional stability. The international community, particularly the UN, underscores the importance of respecting the territorial integrity of the DRC and calls for an end to external support for insurgent activities. Continued attention to this crisis is vital to prevent further escalation and safeguard the affected communities.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
