The crisis in Goma, DRC, escalates with intensified fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese forces. UN officials express grave concern over the humanitarian situation and civilian safety as violence continues. Calls for international support and temporary humanitarian pauses reflect the urgent need to address the critical circumstances faced by millions of displaced individuals.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is escalating, particularly around the regional capital Goma, where the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group clashes with Congolese forces. UN Peace Operations Chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix described the situation in Goma as “volatile and dangerous,” emphasizing the challenges faced by UN personnel due to the intensifying combat. Amidst the conflict, Monusco staff have been forced to shelter, hindering their ability to gather crucial information on ground developments.
Lacroix confirmed that UN peacekeepers remain stationed, but the safety of all non-essential personnel has led to their relocation away from Goma. He reassured that Monusco will continue to fulfill its mandate, particularly focusing on civilian protection and disarmament in accordance with international humanitarian standards. The priority remains the safety of millions of civilians affected by the violence, alongside the security of UN personnel in the region.
The UN’s Deputy Special Representative, Bruno Lemarquis, highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the conflict, noting nearly 6.5 million displaced individuals in the DRC, with nearly three million in North Kivu alone. He described harrowing scenes of violence where civilians bear the brunt of the hostilities, including shelling that struck a maternity hospital in Goma, causing casualties among newborns and pregnant women. Lemarquis called for humanitarian pauses to allow for civilian evacuations and safe aid deliveries, stressing the urgent need to act to save lives.
Concerning Rwanda’s involvement, Lacroix confirmed that Rwandan troops are indeed present in support of the M23. He condemned the recent killing of three peacekeepers, which has heightened security concerns. He urged all parties to respect the safety of UN personnel, highlighting the need for immediate measures to protect civilians and facilitate humanitarian assistance as hostilities continue.
Lacroix reiterated the UN’s commitment to engaging in regional peace efforts and welcomed initiatives from the East African Community and the African Union. Urgent international involvement is critical, with Lemarquis emphasizing a recent $70 million allocation from the Central Emergency Response Fund to aid humanitarian activities. The conference ended with a call for intensified global efforts to prevent further bloodshed and enhance humanitarian responses in Goma.
The situation in Goma, a key city in eastern DRC, has escalated due to escalating tensions between Congolese forces and the M23 rebel group, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda. The conflict has not only resulted in significant violence but also a severe humanitarian crisis, leading to millions of people being displaced. The deteriorating conditions have prompted the UN and various humanitarian organizations to intervene and provide assistance, amidst ongoing international concern over regional stability and security.
The conflict in Goma remains critical, endangering both civilians and UN personnel. Amidst heavy fighting and escalating humanitarian needs, the international community must urgently engage to stabilize the situation. Efforts must focus on protecting vulnerable populations and facilitating humanitarian aid to mitigate the profound suffering caused by the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: news.un.org
