France, US, UK Urge Nationals to Evacuate Goma Amid Intensifying Conflict
The US, UK, and France have urged their nationals to evacuate Goma amid intensifying battles between the Congolese army and M23 rebels, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The UN reports significant displacement due to conflict, raising concerns about safety and regional stability. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have largely stalled, resulting in increased violence and challenges for civilians.
Amidst escalating clashes between the Congolese army and M23 rebels near Goma, a significant city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France have urged their nationals to evacuate. As fighting intensifies, the humanitarian crisis has deepened, following failed diplomatic efforts to mediate between Congolese and Rwandan leadership.
The situation deteriorated rapidly as M23 fighters, allegedly backed by Rwandan troops, made territorial gains, encircling Goma, which is home to approximately one million residents. In a coordinated response, the three nations warned their citizens to leave while transportation options remain available.
The United Nations reported that the ongoing conflict in North Kivu province has displaced more than 400,000 individuals this year, a significant increase from previous estimates. Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesperson for the UN refugee agency, expressed grave concerns for the safety of displaced persons and civilians caught in the violence.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced alarm over the renewed hostilities, indicating that the offensive inflicts considerable damage on civilians and amplifies the risk of broader regional conflict. Clashes escalated just 20 kilometers from Goma, demonstrating the precariousness of the situation.
In response to the rising violence, the Congolese army deployed helicopter gunships to halt the advancing M23 forces. The military governor of North Kivu tragically succumbed to injuries sustained from the conflict, which highlights the precarious and violent environment in the region.
Additionally, international organizations, including the International Committee of the Red Cross, have responded to the crisis by providing medical aid to the wounded. Civilians are fleeing on foot towards the city center of Goma, further complicating the humanitarian situation as the area remains embroiled in conflict, reminiscent of past violence, such as the M23’s occupation of Goma in 2012.
Efforts for peaceful resolutions have been thwarted, culminating in the cancellation of a planned meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The ongoing instability raises concerns, as prior ceasefires have been repeatedly violated, resulting in a cycle of violence.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced decades of conflict, particularly in its eastern regions, where a variety of armed groups, including the M23, have competed for control. The M23, formed in 2012, seized Goma before being repulsed with international support. Recent tensions have been exacerbated by accusations of Rwandan involvement with the M23, causing significant internal displacement and humanitarian distress. Diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region have frequently failed due to unmet agreements and violent outbreaks.
The call for evacuation by the US, UK, and France underscores the severe escalation of conflict in eastern DRC, with mounting casualties and humanitarian crises. The situation remains volatile as M23 rebels gain ground, further threatening the stability of Goma and surrounding areas. With over 400,000 displaced this year alone, immediate and effective international intervention and peace negotiations are critical to prevent further deterioration.
Original Source: www.france24.com
