A coalition of rebel groups in eastern DR Congo announced a humanitarian ceasefire due to recent conflicts that have inflicted heavy casualties. The UN reports over 900 deaths and nearly 2,880 injuries from recent fighting in Goma. The G7 and EU condemned the offensive, urging sanctions against Rwanda while the Congolese and Rwandan presidents prepare for a peace summit in Tanzania.
The alliance of rebel factions in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has announced a humanitarian ceasefire that commenced on Tuesday. This declaration, which includes the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, cites humanitarian concerns following territory acquisitions in eastern regions of the nation. Recent conflicts have led to significant casualties, with the UN reporting over 900 fatalities and nearly 3,000 injuries in the hostilities surrounding Goma, the largest city in eastern DR Congo.
The G7 nations and the European Union have criticized the offensive as a blatant breach of DR Congo’s sovereignty. The coalition of rebel groups, referred to as the Congo River Alliance, accused the Congolese military of indiscriminately bombing their positions and has pledged not to expand their territorial control, countering earlier statements to the contrary. In their communication, the alliance emphasized, “We reiterate our commitment to protecting and defending the civilian population and our positions.”
The protracted conflicts in the region have resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians, with the UN refugee agency indicating that over 400,000 individuals have been uprooted since the beginning of 2025. In response to inquiries about Rwandan troop involvement, President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty about troop presence but indicated that Rwanda would take necessary actions to ensure its protection regarding issues in DR Congo.
Human rights organizations are advocating for increased pressure on Rwanda to withdraw its support for the rebels. The communications minister of DR Congo has urged the international community to levy sanctions against Rwanda, stating, “A strong decision (must be taken) not only to condemn, but to stop what Rwanda is doing, because it is not acceptable if you want to preserve peace in Africa and in our region.”
A regional peace summit, attended by the Congolese and Rwandan presidents, is scheduled to take place in Tanzania on Friday. Given the history of conflict spanning three decades, the potential for prolonged negotiations is anticipated, especially if prior discussions collapse as they have multiple times in the past year.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced ongoing conflict for over three decades, primarily in its eastern regions. Multiple rebel groups, with some receiving support from neighboring Rwanda, have engaged in violent confrontations with the Congolese military. Humanitarian crises, including mass displacements and significant civilian casualties, have emerged as a result of these hostilities, prompting responses from international bodies and human rights organizations.
The declaration of a humanitarian ceasefire by the Congo River Alliance highlights the severe humanitarian situation in eastern DR Congo and the ongoing conflict exacerbated by foreign involvement. The comments from key leaders illustrate the complex dynamics at play, including potential sanctions against Rwanda, as efforts towards a peaceful resolution are pursued amid a backdrop of violence and instability.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
