M23 Rebels Capture Goma Amid Escalating Conflict in DRC
M23 rebels have reportedly taken Goma amid fierce fighting, prompting a refugee crisis. The DRC government denies the capture, urging calm while facing accusations against Rwanda for supporting rebels. U.N. representatives warn that the conflict risks a regional war, calling for the M23 to cease its advances.
Ethnic-Tutsi M23 rebels have reportedly captured the strategic city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo amid intense clashes with government forces. This development led to a mass exodus of refugees fleeing the conflict. Despite the Kinshasa government denying the rebels’ control over Goma, various online videos indicated the M23 fighters were on the streets of the city, home to over one million residents.
The M23 group released a statement encouraging calm amidst the chaos. However, U.N. Special Representative Bintou Keita highlighted the dire situation during a U.N. Security Council emergency meeting, noting that blockades and a closed airport hindered her mission’s ability to escape the escalating violence. This situation unfolded against a backdrop of increasing tensions with Rwanda, which borders eastern Congo and is exacerbating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
In response, DRC government spokesman Patrick Muyaya called on residents to remain indoors and to refrain from engaging in looting or spreading Rwandan disinformation. He emphasized the government’s commitment to avoiding civilian casualties while combating the M23 insurgents. “In view of the security situation in the city of Goma marked by the presence of the Rwandan army, we wish to reassure the population…” – Patrick Muyaya
Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner accused Rwanda of declaring war by allegedly sending troops to support M23 rebels, a move she described as a breach of a U.N. Security Council resolution aimed at stabilizing the region. In turn, Rwanda accused the DRC of supporting rebel groups aimed at destabilizing its government. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concerns that the M23’s advances risk escalating into a regional war.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been embroiled in conflict for decades, with various groups like the M23 exploiting ethnic divisions, particularly among the Tutsi population. The DRC government has long accused Rwanda of supporting these rebel movements, resulting in continuously strained relations. The situation is further complicated by the humanitarian crises affecting millions while international entities like the United Nations monitor ceasefire agreements and conduct peacekeeping missions aiming to restore stability.
The takeover of Goma by M23 rebels signifies a critical escalation in the ongoing conflict in the DRC, raising humanitarian concerns and geopolitical tensions in the region. Continued clashes between government forces and the rebels, coupled with Rwanda’s alleged involvement, threaten to destabilize not only the DRC but also its neighboring countries. Diplomatic efforts must be intensified to restore peace and prevent further escalation of violence.
Original Source: www.upi.com
