M23 rebels continue their advance toward Goma, prompting responses from the Congolese military. The conflict, which has displaced millions and led to severe humanitarian crises, has caught the attention of the UN. Schools closed in response to the escalating violence, and accusations against Rwanda for supporting M23 have emerged.
On Thursday, panic ensued in Goma as M23 rebels advanced toward the city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, engaging with the army. The Congolese military deployed helicopter gunships to target rebel positions and sent troops to the frontline to defend Goma, which is home to approximately 2 million residents and is a critical center for both security and humanitarian efforts.
In recent weeks, M23 has made significant military progress, having previously captured several towns, including Minova, Katale, and Masisi, advancing closer to Goma. The conflict in eastern Congo, one of the largest humanitarian crises globally, has displaced over 7 million people, reflecting the severity of the ongoing violence.
M23, among roughly 100 armed groups operating in the mineral-rich eastern region, has historical ties to ethnic Tutsis and accuses the Congolese government of oppression. A spokesperson for the group, Lawrence Kanyuka, stated their intent to “liberate” the people of Goma amidst the turmoil.
As tensions escalated, schools in Goma closed early to ensure the safety of students. Additionally, international observers, including experts from Congo, the USA, and the United Nations, have implicated Rwanda in supporting the M23 rebel faction, further complicating the conflict’s dynamics.
In response to the resurgent violence, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed alarm, condemning the renewed offensive by M23. He called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, emphasizing the devastating impact on civilians and the increased risk of regional escalation.
The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has persisted for decades, primarily fueled by ethnic tensions and competition for lucrative mineral resources. As of now, M23 rebels, primarily consisting of ethnic Tutsis, have gained ground against the Congolese army, raising concerns about humanitarian crises and regional instability. Various international bodies, including the UN, continuously monitor the situation, suspecting foreign influences exacerbating the conflict.
The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains dire as M23 rebels continue to threaten Goma, prompting military responses from the Congolese army. The humanitarian crisis worsens with millions displaced, and international condemnation increases over the violence. The UN has called for an immediate halt to hostilities to protect civilians and stabilize the region.
Original Source: www.dw.com
