M23 Rebels Claim Control of Goma Amid Escalating Crisis in Eastern DRC
M23 rebels have reportedly captured Goma, prompting an urgent response from the UN Security Council, which condemned the offensive and called for a withdrawal of external forces. Kenya has scheduled a summit to address the escalating crisis, while thousands of civilians have fled due to intense fighting. Casualties among international peacekeepers underscore the severity of the situation.
M23 rebels have asserted their control over the strategic city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), leading to significant geopolitical tensions. The United Nations Security Council has condemned the offensive and demanded a withdrawal of external forces supporting the M23. Meanwhile, Kenya has called for an urgent summit to address the escalating crisis, as international peacekeepers face casualties amidst intense fighting. Reports indicate that heavy gunfire continues in Goma, forcing thousands of civilians to flee the area.
The M23 group issued a statement claiming victory in Goma, coinciding with the expiration of a 48-hour ultimatum for Congolese troops to disarm. They encouraged residents to remain calm while asserting that government forces should gather at a central location for capitulation. However, the accuracy of these claims has yet to be confirmed independently.
In a statement during an emergency UN Security Council meeting, DRC’s Foreign Minister criticized Rwanda for allegedly reinforcing M23 with additional troops, prompting calls for sanctions against Rwandan officials and peacekeepers. “This is a frontal assault, a declaration of war…” – Source.
Simultaneously, Goma’s international airport has been evacuated, halting all flights due to the security situation. Humanitarian organizations express deep concern regarding the ongoing conflict’s impact on civilians, as many have been forced from their homes amidst escalating violence. Casualties among international peacekeepers have heightened tensions as the situation deteriorates.
The UN Secretary-General has called for a cessation of hostilities and withdrawal of Rwandan forces, emphasizing the gravity of the situation in eastern DRC. The M23 rebels are predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsis and have a long history of conflict with the Congolese government. Calls for urgent international intervention are growing as humanitarian crises loom.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo involves multiple armed groups, including the M23 rebels, who have a history of rebelling against the government since they broke away over a decade ago. This region has been marked by instability, partially attributed to external influences, particularly from Rwanda. The crisis reflects a complex interplay of local grievances and international dynamics, drawing attention to the urgent need for diplomatic solutions and humanitarian responses.
In conclusion, the escalation of violence in Goma has underscored the fragile security situation in eastern DRC, with M23 rebels claiming control and heightened geopolitical tensions. The international community, represented by the UN, is monitoring the situation closely, advocating for immediate dialogues and humanitarian aid to mitigate the emerging crisis. The call for a summit by Kenyan leadership reflects the urgency of addressing these interwoven conflicts while protecting civilian lives.
Original Source: www.dw.com
