M23 rebels have seized control of Goma, Congo’s largest city, instigating panic among its residents. The Congolese government condemned the move as a declaration of war amid growing tensions with Rwanda. The U.N. reports fears of worsening humanitarian conditions as the situation escalates, with calls for an immediate ceasefire from international actors.
The M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have claimed control of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo. This development has incited panic among its two million residents, with the Congolese government labeling the takeover as a “declaration of war.” Reports indicate widespread gunfire in the city, with civilians advised to remain calm while members of the Congolese military are asked to gather at a local stadium.
The M23 offensive marks a significant escalation in one of Africa’s protracted conflicts, jeopardizing the safety of an already displaced population in North Kivu province. Currently, over one-third of this province’s inhabitants are displaced, and the capture of Goma threatens to worsen their plight. U.N. peacekeepers began assisting military personnel who have begun surrendering near the city.
Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya emphasized the dire situation of civilians and urged protective measures as the country navigates a war-like environment. An emergency U.N. Security Council session concluded that with transportation routes and the airport blocked, the region has become isolated. Following the escalation of conflict, relations between Congo and Rwanda have deteriorated significantly, leading to the severance of diplomatic ties.
Congo’s officials accuse Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, who are primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis with historical grievances. However, Rwanda continues to refute these allegations, citing its presence in Congo as a security measure amidst rising tensions along the border. Recent violent encounters have claimed the lives of multiple U.N. peacekeepers, further complicating the security landscape.
The U.S. and France have called for a ceasefire and emphasized the need for Rwanda to retract its support for the M23. High casualties have been reported among peacekeeping forces as skirmishes continue. The U.N. leader condemned the M23’s aggression and urged an immediate cessation of hostilities, stating that the fallout from intensified fighting could be catastrophic for civilians, particularly in densely populated Goma.
Experts suggest that the motives of the M23 have shifted from previous political integration demands to territorial control in North Kivu. This change complicates any negotiation strategies. As conflict looms, many residents are compelled to flee from Goma, seeking safety and refuge amid fears of bombardment and violence. Those who remain express feelings of helplessness, and their safety is far from assured; reports indicate ongoing military activity surrounding them.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo traces back to complex historical tensions, particularly involving the M23 rebels, who initially gained notoriety in 2012. This group, made up largely of ethnic Tutsis, has engaged in various military campaigns, often fueled by accusations of foreign support, particularly from Rwanda. The region, rich in minerals, has been a battleground for over a hundred armed groups, leading to vast humanitarian crises and displacement of local populations. Recent escalations have put Goma at the center of renewed violence, raising alarm among international bodies and local leaders. The U.N. has warned about the dire humanitarian implications if fighting spreads into the city, which is home to millions.
The situation in Goma and surrounding areas remains critically tense, with significant implications for civilian safety and stability in the region. The claim of Goma’s capture by M23 rebels has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, leading to increased displacement and panic among local populations. The international community, including the U.S. and U.N., are calling for cessation of hostilities and dialogue to address the complex geopolitical factors surrounding the conflict.
Original Source: ny1.com
