M23 Rebels Claim Control of Goma Amid Escalating Conflict in Congo

M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, claim to have captured Goma in eastern DRC. The situation has led to civilian evacuations, power outages, and a humanitarian crisis. The Congolese military, backed by international forces, is engaged in intense combat, with calls for Rwanda to withdraw its troops escalating amid fears of civil unrest.

In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, M23 rebels, believed to be backed by Rwanda, have reportedly seized the city of Goma after intense combat with government forces. Residents are fleeing the area as artillery echoes through the city, leading to near-deserted streets and closed businesses. Power outages have left most of the city’s one million residents with limited communication capabilities.

The region has experienced prolonged conflict, rooted in historical tensions dating back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The M23 group, led by Congolese Tutsi officials, resurfaced in late 2021, rapidly regaining territory in North Kivu. They claim to defend minority groups, such as Tutsis, while facing accusations of serious human rights violations by various organizations.

Recent escalations have intensified since January, when M23 forces engaged government troops and imposed a 48-hour ultimatum for their surrender. The Congolese military, bolstered by international support, has struggled against the rebel offensives, leading to significant casualties among both UN peacekeepers and regional military forces.

Evidence suggests Rwanda has actively participated in the conflict, with independent reports indicating the presence of thousands of Rwandan troops in the region. Calls for Rwanda to withdraw its forces have surfaced, particularly from UN officials, as the situation in Goma remains precarious.

As fighting continues, humanitarian efforts are hampered by the deteriorating security environment, forcing the UN and various aid organizations to evacuate staff and leaving over hundreds of thousands of displaced individuals without adequate support. Although the Congolese government remains committed to defending Goma, the dynamics on the ground indicate an increasingly challenging situation for both military and civilians alike.

The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to escalate as M23 rebels claim control of Goma, backed by Rwanda. The deteriorating situation compels residents to flee, while humanitarian efforts become complicated amid ongoing violence. With both Congolese forces and international support struggling to contain the advance of the M23, the future of Goma hangs in the balance alongside the well-being of its citizens.

Original Source: www.gpb.org