DR Congo’s Military Response Intensifies Amid M23 Rebel Advances

President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC announced a vigorous military response to M23 rebels amid a deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC. The M23, backed by Rwanda, has seized significant territory, including Goma, raising humanitarian concerns. Tshisekedi criticized international inaction and rejected crisis talks with Rwanda, while protests erupted in Kinshasa over insufficient global response to the conflict.

On Wednesday, President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stated that his military was implementing a “vigorous” response to the advances of the M23 rebels, who are supported by Rwanda. This declaration follows a significant escalation in the conflict as the M23 has seized control of key territories in eastern DRC, including the strategically important city of Goma, raising urgent concerns about a humanitarian crisis.

The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, which has persisted for decades, is linked to historical tensions stemming from the 1994 Rwandan genocide. In a televised address, Tshisekedi condemned the international community’s failure to address the deteriorating security situation, asserting that their silence constitutes “an affront” to the DRC and could lead to broader regional instability.

Local sources reported that M23 fighters advanced into South Kivu, capturing two districts, as the Congolese army struggled to respond effectively. The previous days of intense combat have resulted in over 100 casualties and left nearly 1,000 injured, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation in the region. Amidst these developments, residents of Goma expressed their fears regarding food and medical shortages.

Despite international calls for dialogue and resolution, President Tshisekedi opted not to participate in crisis talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The East African Community has urged the DRC government to engage with all relevant stakeholders, including the M23, while Angola has called for urgent discussions between the Congolese and Rwandan leaders in Luanda.

As M23 rebels continue to control Goma and surrounding areas, humanitarian crises have unfolded with food shortages reported, displacing tens of thousands of individuals. The advanced presence of M23 fighters in Goma and their activities have raised serious security concerns, with infrastructural damage and widespread looting observed.

In protest of the ongoing conflict and international inaction, demonstrators in Kinshasa targeted the embassies of nations they believed were failing to intervene effectively. Following the unrest, the government banned further protests while issuing warnings to citizens against traveling to the country, reflecting heightened tensions and insecurity.

While international figures urged Rwanda to withdraw its forces, the Rwandan ambassador indicated that the M23 momentum would persist, potentially extending beyond eastern DRC. Claims suggest that Rwanda is exploiting DRC’s minerals, prompting accusations of military involvement, although Rwanda has consistently denied these allegations.

The DRC remains rich in valuable resources like gold, cobalt, and tin, which are essential for global trading and technology.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, primarily in its eastern regions which are laden with mineral resources. The resurgence of the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, has been a significant factor in the ongoing violence. This situation escalated following the 1994 Rwandan genocide, with numerous armed groups vying for control, resulting in a complex security and humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

In summary, the Democratic Republic of Congo faces a critical juncture as President Tshisekedi asserts military strength against the advancing M23 rebels. The international community’s lack of action has drawn condemnation, while the humanitarian crisis continues to grow amidst escalating tensions. With regional implications looming, continued dialogue and intervention may become increasingly necessary to address the conflict and its ramifications.

Original Source: www.france24.com