The conflict in Goma, DRC, escalates with intensified fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese forces, prompting urgent UN intervention due to the resulting humanitarian crisis. UN officials emphasize the need for immediate international engagement and temporary humanitarian pauses to protect civilians and facilitate aid delivery amid significant violence, including attacks on hospitals, exacerbated by Rwanda’s support for the rebels.
The conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has escalated, particularly in Goma, where fighting between the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group and Congolese forces intensifies. United Nations Peace Operations Chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix labeled the situation as “volatile and dangerous,” indicating a critical state of affairs in the region. He noted that some UN personnel had to seek shelter due to the ongoing clashes, which has hindered their ability to gather comprehensive information concerning the rapidly changing circumstances.
Despite the challenges, Mr. Lacroix assured that peacekeepers remain stationed but emphasized that the safety of non-essential personnel is a priority, leading to their relocation from Goma. He reiterated MONUSCO’s commitment to its mission, including the protection of civilians and adherence to international humanitarian law. The focus remains on the well-being of the civilians in Goma and those displaced by the conflict.
Bruno Lemarquis, the UN’s Deputy Special Representative in the DRC, provided a dire overview of the humanitarian situation. He stated that Goma is facing an exacerbation of one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, affecting nearly 6.5 million displaced individuals within the country. The violence has led to mass displacement, with civilians suffering the most under the intense hostilities, including reported artillery fire targeting hospitals, which has resulted in casualties among civilians, including newborns and pregnant women.
Mr. Lemarquis called for temporary humanitarian pauses to aid civilian evacuations and improve aid delivery, stressing the urgency to act to prevent further casualties. Regarding Rwanda’s involvement, Mr. Lacroix confirmed significant Rwandan troop presence supporting the M23, condemning violence against peacekeepers, which has resulted in the deaths and injuries of UN personnel. He implored all parties, including Rwanda, to ensure the safety of UN staff amid the ongoing crisis.
Mr. Lacroix also reiterated the UN’s dedication to regional peace initiatives, backing upcoming meetings by the East African Community and the African Union. He underscored the need for heightened international engagement to address the emergency, with a recent $70 million allocation to support humanitarian efforts. He concluded by urging global entities to increase their involvement to prevent further bloodshed and bolster humanitarian responses.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC, particularly in Goma, has escalated significantly due to the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese forces, exacerbated by Rwanda’s backing of the rebels. This struggle has plunged the region into a humanitarian crisis, characterized by mass displacement and severe violence directed at civilians, notably in urban areas. The United Nations has been actively engaged in peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts in the region, facing challenges from the complexities of the conflict.
In summary, the situation in Goma represents a critical humanitarian crisis, intensified by violence between the M23 rebel group and Congolese forces. The UN continues to prioritize the safety of civilians and personnel while calling for international support and immediate action to alleviate the situation. The involvement of Rwanda and the urgent need for humanitarian aid highlight the complex dynamics affecting the region’s stability and safety.
Original Source: news.un.org
