UN Reports Calmer Situation in Democratic Republic of Congo Amid Ongoing Conflict
The UN has reported a calmer but tense situation in Goma, DRC, amid fighting between M23 rebels and government forces. Although sporadic violence persists, key priorities remain the protection of civilians and UN personnel. Humanitarian access has been hindered, aggravated by protests against embassies perceived as supporting the M23. The conflict highlights ethnic grievances and the area’s strategic mineral wealth.
The United Nations reported a calmer situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in Goma, despite ongoing tensions due to fighting between M23 rebels and government forces. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric indicated that while sporadic shooting continues, overall exchanges of fire have decreased. The priority for the UN peacekeeping mission remains the protection of its personnel and civilians within its premises.
Dujarric mentioned the planned patrols by UN peacekeepers in Goma to assess the situation and provide necessary supplies. Despite calls for protests, major roads in Goma were reported to be largely deserted, with supermarkets closed due to the risk of looting. Demonstrations have targeted various embassies, accusing them of supporting Rwanda, which is blamed for backing the M23 rebels.
The UN expressed condolences for peacekeepers lost in the conflict, noting that at least 22 injuries among personnel have occurred since the latest assault by the M23. The spokesman condemned the attacks as potential war crimes. Amid ongoing violence, humanitarian operations have been hindered, with warehouses looted and the airport in Goma closed, disrupting aid supply flows.
The M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, claim to control the eastern city of Goma, while the Congolese government asserts the presence of Rwandan troops. Clashes have resulted in at least 25 deaths in Goma and nine in Rwanda. The region’s strategic significance is underscored by its mineral wealth, which is a driving factor for the conflict.
The M23’s grievances are rooted in perceived discrimination against the Tutsi community, with claims that the government has neglected to address their safety concerns. The Congolese authorities, however, argue that the M23 destabilizes the region with external assistance, particularly from Rwanda.
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo involves M23 rebels and government forces fighting for control of the city of Goma. The M23 is believed to have external support from Rwanda, raising tensions not only within DRC but also in the region. Goma is strategically significant as it serves as a gateway to rich mineral deposits which are vital for global industries, heightening the stakes in the ongoing clashes. The humanitarian crisis in the region has escalated as violence disrupts aid access and puts civilians at risk. The M23’s claims of discrimination highlight unresolved ethnic tensions in the area, complicating the peace efforts and exacerbating the conflict. The presence of UN peacekeepers aims to stabilize the situation, offering some measure of security amid violence and protests against perceived foreign involvement in the conflict.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains complex, with ongoing tensions between M23 rebels and government forces in Goma, amidst calls for protests. While the UN reports a calmer atmosphere due to reduced violence, humanitarian efforts continue to face significant challenges. The conflict underscores deep-rooted grievances and the region’s strategic importance, particularly concerning mineral resources, complicating potential resolutions and peacekeeping efforts.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
