Rebels supported by Rwanda have surrounded Goma, Eastern Congo, after capturing Saké, the last army position before the city. The M23 group previously held Goma in 2012 for two weeks before international intervention forced their retreat. Following a period of dormancy, the M23 has resumed aggressive operations since late 2021 amidst stalled peace negotiations.
Rebels, supported by Rwanda, have encircled the key city of Goma in Eastern Congo, marking a significant escalation in the long-standing conflict between Congo and Rwanda. Recently, the M23 rebel group captured Saké, the last stronghold of the Congolese army prior to Goma. This attack has prompted a swift retreat of Congolese forces, raising concerns over the city’s fate.
Goma, which has a population exceeding 2 million people, is critical to the region, and its fall would represent a notable victory for the M23 rebels, who previously seized the city in 2012. International pressure compelled Rwanda to cease its backing of the group after that incursion. However, claims by the United States and the United Nations allege that Rwanda continues to support M23, accusations that Rwanda has consistently denied.
After a lengthy period of dormancy following their defeat in late 2013 by Congolese forces and UN responders, the M23 rebels resurfaced in late 2021 and commenced a series of successful offensives against the Congolese army. Concurrently, peace negotiations facilitated by Angola have made little progress as uncertainties surrounding the future of UN peacekeepers persist, with their current mandate renewed only for a year in December.
The ongoing violence and military setbacks for the Congolese army have exacerbated tensions in the region, further complicating the prospect for peace in a conflict that continues to claim innocent lives and destabilize the area.
The conflict between Congo and Rwanda dates back several years and has evolved through various phases. The M23, a rebel group, has its roots in issues stemming from the Congolese civil war and the Rwandan Genocide. External support, particularly from Rwanda, has been a critical factor in the group’s resurgence. This conflict not only affects local populations but has implications for regional stability in Central Africa.
In summary, the recent advancements of the M23 rebels toward Goma represent a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict in Eastern Congo. With international allegations of Rwandan support for the rebels and stalled peace processes, the potential for further violence looms large. The situation demands urgent attention and intervention to avoid a humanitarian crisis in the region.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
