Guterres Urges M23 Rebels to Halt Offensive in Eastern DRC
António Guterres has called for an immediate halt to the M23 rebel group’s offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has displaced over 178,000 people. The rebels have advanced towards Goma, raising concerns about civilian casualties and the risk of wider regional conflict. Historical tensions and external support complicate the situation, necessitating urgent diplomatic intervention.
António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, has expressed deep concern regarding the recent offensive by the M23 rebel group in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), an escalation that has displaced over 178,000 individuals in just two weeks. In a statement delivered through his spokesperson, Guterres emphasized the severe impact of M23’s actions on the civilian population and warned of the potential for a wider regional conflict.
The M23 rebels have rapidly advanced in Eastern DRC and are currently surrounding Goma, the largest city in the region. Their recent gains include capturing several towns, such as Minova and Sake, causing alarm among the residents. Witnessing shelling in the outskirts of Goma has led to increased panic, as hospitals receive a continual influx of wounded civilians from the ongoing clashes.
In response to the advancing rebels, the Congolese army has engaged in fierce combat, utilizing helicopter gunships and mobilizing troops to the frontlines. Many residents of Sake have fled, seeking refuge on boats across Lake Kivu to escape the violence. Eyewitness accounts share harrowing experiences, illustrating the human toll of these military confrontations.
The conflict in DRC has historical roots, entwined with ongoing struggles involving various regional armed groups, resulting in one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally. Since 1998, the violence has claimed approximately six million lives and displaced more than seven million individuals. The M23 group, composed largely of Tutsis who defected from the Congolese army, remains one of numerous factions operating in the mineral-rich eastern regions of the DRC.
Allegations persist that Rwanda supports M23, despite official denials from its government. A recent UN report has indicated the presence of Rwandan forces collaborating with M23, suggesting a potential link between external state actors and the armed group’s military operations. Guterres has reiterated the need for all parties involved in the conflict to respect the DRC’s sovereignty and to cease any support for armed factions.
The situation in the DRC is marked by a prolonged history of conflict involving various local and regional power struggles. In the past decades, numerous armed groups have emerged, contributing to widespread instability and violence, particularly in the eastern regions rich in natural resources. The ongoing clashes, such as those involving the M23 group, lead to significant humanitarian crises, including mass displacements and countless civilian casualties. International involvement, including allegations of support from neighboring countries like Rwanda, complicates the dynamics and necessitates urgent diplomatic attention.
In summary, the escalating offensive by the M23 group in the eastern DRC poses an urgent humanitarian crisis, marked by significant civilian displacement and potential for greater conflict. The international community, including Secretary-General António Guterres, calls for immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for the DRC’s territorial sovereignty. Ongoing support for armed groups, both domestic and foreign, must be addressed to restore stability and peace in the region.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
