The Security Council is meeting urgently to discuss the escalating violence in the DRC, particularly after the M23 rebel group’s claim over Goma. Humanitarian conditions are deteriorating, with calls for safe evacuation routes and humanitarian pauses. The Council condemned the ongoing military offensive and discussed measures regarding Rwanda’s involvement. Further dialogues aim to alleviate tensions and promote peace in the region.
This afternoon, on January 28th, the Security Council is convening its second urgent meeting this week to address the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as requested by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. The meeting will include a briefing from Vivian van de Perre, the Deputy Special Representative for Protection and Operations in MONUSCO.
The rebel group Mouvement du 23 Mars (M23) recently declared its intention to occupy Goma after an ultimatum for Congolese Armed Forces to surrender their weapons lapsed. While reports indicate M23 forces have moved into Goma and claimed control, ongoing fighting reflects a volatile situation, causing significant unrest in Kinshasa and attacks on several embassies.
The humanitarian crisis in Goma continues to escalate, with civilians in great danger as fighting disrupts essential services and forces many to flee. Goma’s airport and border crossings are closed, impeding escape routes for fleeing individuals. Lemarquis has called for humanitarian pauses and the establishment of safe corridors to facilitate aid delivery and evacuation of civilians trapped in conflict zones.
Furthermore, MONUSCO has begun evacuating non-essential personnel due to the precarious security conditions. Recent clashes have resulted in the loss of three MONUSCO peacekeepers and numerous injuries, underscoring the risks faced by peacekeeping missions in establishing stability in the region.
The Security Council is reflecting on the recent approval of a press statement condemning the M23’s military actions and violations against DRC sovereignty. Amid intense dialogue, the statement emphasized the need to cease military advances and withdraw external forces implicated in the conflict.
Minister Wagner expressed dissatisfaction with the Security Council’s vague reactions to the situation, urging a definitive stance against Rwanda’s involvement. Additionally, diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions through regular consultations and regional initiatives aimed at fostering peace-building dialogues between the DRC and Rwanda.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has its roots in historical tensions, particularly involving armed groups like the M23 and regional influences from neighboring countries, including Rwanda. The current unrest in Goma highlights the lasting impacts of conflict on civilian populations and the broader need for international intervention to stabilize the region. Humanitarian crises frequently accompany warfare, leading to displacements and exacerbation of existing vulnerabilities among the local population, thus requiring coordinated efforts for relief and security.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains critical, with heightened military activity from the M23 and significant humanitarian challenges in Goma. The international community, including the Security Council and regional bodies, is seeking diplomatic solutions and operational support to mitigate the violence and assist affected civilians. Efforts to engage in serious dialogue and reinforce peace strategies are essential for restoring stability in the DRC.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
