Intensifying Crisis in Goma: UN Calls for Urgent Humanitarian Action
Intensifying conflict in Goma involves M23 rebels backed by Rwanda and Congolese forces. UN officials emphasize the urgency of the humanitarian situation, with significant civilian casualties and displacement. The UN calls for increased international engagement to address safety concerns and provide aid.
Fighting has escalated in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, clashes with Congolese military forces. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN chief of Peace Operations, described the situation in Goma as “volatile and dangerous.” He noted that UN personnel in the region had to take shelter due to ongoing hostilities, which limited their capacity to gather essential information about the rapidly changing conditions.
While UN peacekeepers remain stationed in Goma, Lacroix emphasized the safety of non-essential staff, who have been relocated for security reasons. Despite the challenges, he confirmed that MONUSCO personnel are committed to fulfilling their mandate, which includes protecting civilians and disarming combatants in line with international humanitarian law. “The fate of the millions of civilians living in Goma… is really the priority,” reiterated Lacroix.
Bruno Lemarquis, the UN Deputy Special Representative, reported a dire humanitarian crisis in Goma, exacerbated by ongoing violence. He stated, “What is unfolding in Goma is coming on top of already one of the most protracted… humanitarian crises on Earth, with close to 6.5 million displaced people…” Reports of heavy artillery fire targeting the city center have led to civilian casualties, including at the Charity Maternity Hospital.
Lemarquis urged for temporary humanitarian pauses to facilitate civilian evacuations and ensure aid delivery. He expressed an urgent need for action to alleviate suffering, stating, “We must act now to prevent further loss of life…” In terms of Rwanda’s involvement, Lacroix confirmed the presence of Rwandan troops supporting the M23 group and condemned the recent killing of peacekeepers, calling for the protection of UN personnel.
Lacroix reiterated the UN’s commitment to regional peace initiatives, also emphasizing the importance of the upcoming East African Community summit. He highlighted recent funding of $70 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund to support humanitarian efforts. “I urge the international community to intensify its engagement to prevent the bloodshed and to support the humanitarian response. We must act now,” concluded Lacroix.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, particularly in Goma, is marked by violence from the M23 rebel group, which has received support from Rwanda. This resurgence of fighting poses significant challenges to the UN operation in the area, with staff risks hampering vital humanitarian efforts. The situation has resulted in mass displacement and critical humanitarian needs, with millions affected and major services disrupted.
The continuing conflict in Goma represents a serious humanitarian crisis affecting millions. The situation demands urgent international attention and action to protect civilians and provide necessary assistance. The involvement of external forces like Rwanda complicates the conflict, necessitating diplomatic and humanitarian solutions.
Original Source: news.un.org
