Fighting has intensified near Goma, DR Congo, as the national army clashes with M23 rebels, prompting evacuations recommended by the UK, US, and France. The UN reports significant displacement and humanitarian concerns, with MONUSCO engaged in active combat against the militia. An emergency meeting of the UN Security Council is scheduled to address escalating violence and instability.
Fighting escalated on Friday around Goma in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) between the national army and M23 rebels. Following the failure of peace talks, the militia, reportedly supported by Rwandan forces, has captured significant territory, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis. In response, the governments of the UK, US, and France have urged their citizens to evacuate Goma, as conditions may deteriorate further.
The UN mission in the DR Congo, known as MONUSCO, has reported increased hostilities, stating that its peacekeeping forces had been actively engaged in combat against the M23. Over the past two days, MONUSCO has utilized heavy artillery against rebel positions. The ongoing conflict in North Kivu has led to the displacement of over 400,000 individuals this year, raising concerns of a potential regional conflict.
The UN Security Council is scheduled to convene for an emergency meeting to address the escalating crisis. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed alarm regarding the surge in violence, with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees noting a drastic increase in the number of displaced people, indicating severe humanitarian implications.
Military clashes continued near Goma, including aerial bombardments by Congolese forces targeting M23 positions in nearby locations. Connectivity issues, such as interruptions to mobile and internet services, have compounded the suffering of the local population. Coupled with these tensions, the military governor of North Kivu was tragically killed, emphasizing the precarious security situation.
The current unrest in eastern DR Congo stems from long-standing conflicts involving various militia groups, notably the M23, which has resurfaced amid failed peace negotiations. The region, rich in resources, has been plagued by violence and humanitarian crises for years, drawing international attention and concern. Recent actions from the UK, US, and France illustrate the gravity of the situation and the potential for wider conflict in Central Africa.
The situation in eastern DR Congo remains dire as fighting intensifies, displacing over 400,000 individuals amidst humanitarian crises. The international community is mobilizing responses while the UN prepares for urgent discussions. With rising threats to civilian safety and potential regional implications, immediate attention to the conflict is imperative.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
