Fear Grips Goma as Rwanda-Backed Rebels Claim Control Amid…

Goma residents face uncertainty as Rwanda-backed rebels claim to have taken control of the city amidst escalating conflict with Congolese security forces. The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, have a history of conflict in the region, contributing to a humanitarian crisis that has displaced millions. The U.N. Security Council called for an end to hostilities, emphasizing the need for respect for Congolese sovereignty as locals flee in fear.

Residents of Goma, eastern Congo, awoke to fear and uncertainty on Monday after Rwanda-backed rebels, known as the M23, claimed control of the city amid escalating tensions with Congolese security forces. Gunfire echoed overnight as armed men in military attire were seen entering Goma, the capital of North Kivu. The Congolese government has not confirmed these reports, leaving the situation unclear as some locals cheered the armed men on the streets.

The M23 rebel group, which has received backing from Rwanda, is among approximately 100 armed factions in the resource-rich region involved in one of Africa’s longest-standing conflicts. Having briefly overtaken Goma in 2012, the M23 resurfaced in late 2021 with increased support from Rwanda, which the Rwandan government has denied. Observers express concern that the renewed fighting could further destabilize a region afflicted by a humanitarian crisis that has displaced over six million people.

In a statement, the U.N. Security Council condemned the M23’s actions, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and emphasizing respect for the Democratic Republic of Congo’s sovereignty. The M23 announced they had captured Goma as a deadline for Congolese troops to surrender approached, urging calm among residents and requesting the military to gather at a stadium.

Congolese officials described the situation as “a war situation” and accused Rwanda of aggression, severing ties over the weekend following stalled diplomatic efforts. The recent advance by the rebels marks a significant culmination in their ongoing battle with Congolese forces as several towns have already fallen to their control.

Amid the chaos, many Goma residents attempted to flee toward Rwanda, fearing for their safety due to violent confrontations on the border. “We are fleeing because we saw soldiers on the border with Rwanda throwing bombs and shooting,” said Safi Shangwe, illustrating the desperation for safety.

The U.N.’s representative for Congo, Bintou Keita, reported a trapped situation with roads and the airport blocked. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of at least 13 U.N. peacekeepers in the past week amid ongoing hostilities. The Uruguayan contingent of the U.N. peacekeeping mission noted that over 100 Congolese soldiers had surrendered their arms on Sunday.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, particularly in North Kivu province, has roots in historical tensions involving multiple armed groups, foreign interference, and a struggle for control over valuable minerals. The M23’s resurgence, allegedly backed by Rwanda, is part of a broader struggle in a region already marked by significant displacement and humanitarian challenges. Efforts to stabilize the area have been complicated by regional tensions and sporadic violence among different factions, often resulting in massive displacements and shrinking confidence in peacekeeping efforts.

The situation in Goma is precarious as the M23 rebels claim control of the city, raising fears among local residents amid escalating violence. With millions displaced and local tensions intensifying, international bodies have called for a de-escalation of hostilities. The involvement of Rwanda holds critical implications for regional stability, while humanitarian crises continue to worsen, underscoring the urgent need for a resolution and increased support for affected populations.

Original Source: www.clickondetroit.com