Intensifying conflict in Goma involves the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels clashing with Congolese forces. UN officials, including Jean-Pierre Lacroix, characterized the situation as “volatile and dangerous,” highlighting the humanitarian crisis affecting millions of displaced individuals. Calls for urgent international support and humanitarian pauses are critical to alleviate civilian suffering and prevent further loss of life.
The ongoing conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has intensified, particularly around Goma, as clashes erupt between the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, and Congolese forces. United Nations peace operations chief, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, characterized the situation as “volatile and dangerous,” emphasizing the difficulty in obtaining accurate information due to safety measures taken by UN staff amidst the fighting. He affirmed that peacekeepers would continue their mission to protect civilians and disarm combatants, despite risking their own safety.
Bruno Lemarquis, the UN Deputy Special Representative in the DRC, highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, reporting close to 6.5 million displaced individuals across the country, with nearly three million in North Kivu alone. He described alarming scenes of civilian casualties and displacement due to heavy artillery attacks, which have even targeted hospitals, including a maternity facility that suffered multiple shell impacts. Lemarquis called for urgent humanitarian pauses to allow for civilian evacuations and aid delivery, stressing the need to act quickly to prevent further suffering.
Responding to inquiries regarding Rwanda’s role, Mr. Lacroix confirmed the presence of Rwandan troops assisting the M23 rebels in Goma. He condemned recent attacks that resulted in the deaths of three peacekeepers and called for all involved parties, including Rwanda, to prioritize the safety of UN personnel. Lacroix urged a focus on immediate humanitarian needs and efforts to cease hostilities, as the situation escalates.
Diplomatic efforts are underway, with Lacroix highlighting the UN’s support for regional peace initiatives, including a planned summit by the East African Community. Lemarquis underlined the urgency for international engagement, noting a recent $70 million allocation from the Central Emergency Response Fund for humanitarian support. The urgency of the situation was encapsulated in Lacroix’s closing statement, urging the international community to amplify its efforts to stem the violence and enhance humanitarian responses.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been engulfed in conflict for decades, with various armed groups vying for control over territories, particularly in the eastern region. The M23 rebel group has seen a resurgence, often backed by neighboring Rwanda, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in areas like Goma. The UN peacekeeping forces, MONUSCO, play a critical role in stabilizing the region and preventing civilian casualties amidst this ongoing violence, while the humanitarian situation remains precarious.
The situation in Goma reflects a complex interplay of military conflict and humanitarian disaster, exacerbated by international involvement, particularly from Rwanda. UN officials have underscored the urgent need for immediate action to protect civilians and prevent further escalations in violence. Without timely intervention and support from the international community, the crisis may deepen, with severe consequences for the millions affected.
Original Source: news.un.org
