Escalating fighting between the M23 rebel group and the Congolese army in eastern DRC has raised significant international concern. The M23 seeks to capture Goma, leading to a humanitarian crisis with over 300 injuries and 400,000 new displacements this month. Nine South African soldiers have died in clashes, prompting calls for immediate peace efforts from global leaders including the African Union and European Union.
Fighting between the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group and the Congolese army persisted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amid rising international concern. Clashes occurred in two locations within Masisi territory, close to Goma, North Kivu’s capital and home to many international organizations. The M23 has affirmed its intention to seize Goma following intense confrontations with the army and allied militias, known as “wazalendo”.
The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (Monusco) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) peacekeepers are actively working to prevent the rebels’ progression. The conflict escalated recently when M23 and Rwandan forces overtook Minova, a town located 40 kilometers from Goma, disrupting vital supply routes.
Human Rights Watch’s senior Africa researcher, Clémentine de Montjoye, urged concerned governments to pressure the warring factions to prioritize civilian safety amidst the conflict. Reports indicate over 300 injuries in the region this week, with dire humanitarian conditions in Goma, characterized by water shortages and electricity outages.
The recent spike in hostilities has displaced approximately 400,000 individuals within three weeks, compounding an existing humanitarian crisis that has left over four million people displaced in the area. This week, nine South African soldiers were reported killed in clashes with the M23, including seven serving in the SADC mission and two in Monusco, alongside casualties from other nations.
Internationally, the plight resulting from the conflict has evoked significant concern. Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairman of the African Union Commission, called for an immediate ceasefire, urging the global community to support those affected. The European Union condemned the M23’s violations of the 2024 ceasefire and encouraged Rwanda to cease its support for the rebel group, despite Rwanda’s denials of collaboration.
The linkage between the Congolese army and the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) has been acknowledged by the UN. Hostilities from the M23 have intensified since their resurgence in November 2021, having previously occupied Goma for ten days in 2012. Historic conflicts in eastern DRC have been ongoing since 1998, complicating peacekeeping efforts.
The current conflict in eastern DRC has roots in long-standing tensions involving multiple rebel groups and government forces amid regional interferences, particularly from neighboring Rwanda. As armed conflicts have persisted in eastern Congo for decades, countless civilians have been affected, leading to severe humanitarian crises. The presence of international organizations has aimed to stabilize the region, yet ground realities illustrate ongoing violence. The humanitarian ramifications of this conflict are dire, necessitating immediate international attention and action.
In summary, the conflict in eastern DRC, marked by violent clashes between the M23 and government forces, poses a significant threat to stability and civilian safety. With alarming humanitarian conditions and large-scale displacements, the international community’s response has become crucial. The evolving dynamics among regional stakeholders further complicate matters, highlighting the need for collective efforts towards peace.
Original Source: efe.com
