Intensifying Conflict in DR Congo Leads to Mass Displacement and Evacuations from Goma
The conflict in DR Congo intensifies near Goma, with government forces clashing with M23 militants backed by Rwandan troops. Western nations have urged their citizens to evacuate as over 400,000 people have been displaced this year. The UN reports active combat between M23 and MONUSCO forces, amid fears of a broader conflict and humanitarian crisis.
The conflict intensifies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) as violence escalates between government forces and the M23 militia near Goma, prompting Western nations to advise their citizens to evacuate. The escalating clashes have led to widespread humanitarian concerns, as the militia, allegedly supported by Rwandan troops, has taken significant territory in the mineral-rich eastern region. With airports remaining operational, the US, UK, and France have issued warnings to their nationals to leave Goma promptly.
The United Nations peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, reported active combat against M23 forces, with heavy artillery being deployed to counter the militia’s advances. The UN revealed that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced in North Kivu province just this year, exacerbating fears of a larger regional conflict. An emergency UN Security Council meeting is scheduled to address the worsening situation.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concerns regarding the resurgence of hostilities, underscoring the urgent need for action to protect civilians. According to Matthew Saltmarsh of the UN refugee agency, the steep rise in displacements raises significant worries about the safety of those affected by the ongoing clash. Many families have fled to Goma seeking shelter and safety due to heavy bombardments in nearby regions.
Fighting has persisted about 20 kilometers west of Goma, with reports of Congolese military helicopters engaging M23 positions. As President Félix Tshisekedi convenes a defense council meeting, the military continues its efforts to repel M23 advances. Tragically, General Peter Cirimwami, the military governor of North Kivu, was shot and killed amid the ongoing clashes.
Civilians seeking refuge have been moving toward Goma on foot, fleeing from the battlefield. The city has historically been a flashpoint of conflict in eastern DR Congo and previously endured a brief occupation by M23 in 2012. Despite diplomatic attempts to resolve the ongoing crisis, efforts have largely failed, and previous ceasefires have been broken repeatedly.
The latest diplomatic initiative, supported by Turkey, aims to mediate between DR Congo and Rwanda amidst the turmoil. Nonetheless, the region remains turbulent with ongoing military actions, and the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as the fighting escalates.
The situation in eastern DR Congo has been historically complex, marked by ongoing conflicts involving various militia groups, including M23, which has benefitted from alleged external support. The latest resurgence of violence follows failed peace talks and has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, including thousands of displaced individuals. The international community’s response, particularly from Western nations, reflects growing concerns about regional stability and civilian safety in the face of escalating armed conflict.
The ongoing military confrontations in eastern DR Congo have resulted in dire consequences for the civilian population, with hundreds of thousands displaced and escalating fears of a broader conflict. As Western nations advise their citizens to evacuate Goma, the situation remains precarious, requiring urgent international attention and intervention to protect vulnerable populations and work towards a resolution. The involvement of global actors in mediating the conflict highlights the need for diplomatic solutions to restore peace in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
