Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have escalated conflict in eastern Congo by invading the strategic town of Walikale, ignoring ceasefire calls. This move threatens control over key transportation routes linking several provinces and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced. There are ongoing concerns about violence affecting medical facilities and the safety of civilians amid the violence.
Rwanda-backed rebels, specifically the M23 group, have advanced into the mineral-rich town of Walikale in eastern Congo, disregarding ceasefire appeals from the leaders of both Congo and Rwanda. This escalation follows the ongoing conflict, which intensified in January when M23 seized the strategic city of Goma and the town of Bukavu shortly thereafter. The conflict is drawing international scrutiny, especially following a recent meeting in Qatar between the respective presidents that aimed at negotiating a ceasefire.
Despite calls for peace, the rebels entered Walikale late on Wednesday, capturing critical roads that connect several provinces and potentially weakening Congolese army positions. Local residents reported that armed confrontations were prevalent throughout the day, with suspicions that the Congolese army has ceased its operations, leading to increasing fears among civilians. Fiston Misona, a civil society activist, expressed concerns about the safety and morale of the Congolese forces, stating, “Our Congolese army is no longer fighting.”
Walikale is rich in minerals, including significant tin deposits crucial to Congo’s economy. Alphamin Resources, the operator of the Bisie tin mine, has halted operations amid the unrest. Concurrently, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi expressed interest in negotiating a deal with the United States regarding security measures and mineral management, indicating a reliance on international intervention to restore stability.
M23 is one of numerous armed groups competing for control of rich mineral resources in eastern Congo, which has exacerbated one of the most critical humanitarian crises globally, with over seven million people displaced. The rebels, bolstered by Rwandan troops, have indicated ambitions to extend their hold much further into Congo. Human rights organizations are closely monitoring the situation, with a U.N. commission established to investigate violations committed during the conflict.
Doctors Without Borders reported that its facility in Walikale has faced violence, suffering damage as a result of the clashes. The organization foresees a surge in casualties as attacks continue. They noted, “In recent days, the town of Walikale had already practically emptied of its population in panic,” highlighting the dire humanitarian situation.
Media reports suggest that the fighting in Walikale could worsen, increasing the urgency for diplomatic resolutions and military intervention to prevent further deterioration of civilian safety and well-being.
The situation in Walikale, Congo, remains fragile as M23 rebels continue their offensive, ignoring calls for ceasefire from Congolese and Rwandan leaders. The humanitarian crisis escalates, highlighted by the displacement of millions and the halting of essential mining operations. It is imperative for international stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and intervene to safeguard the affected populations and restore order in the region.
Original Source: www.2news.com
