Congolese Army Battles M23 Rebels Amid Humanitarian Crisis in South Kivu
The Congolese military fights M23 rebels in South Kivu, following the capture of Goma. This conflict has resulted in 700 deaths this week, as the army attempts to reclaim lost villages. The humanitarian situation deteriorates, with many displaced and in need of assistance, while human rights violations have been reported on both sides.
The Congolese army is currently engaged in combat against Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, who have advanced into South Kivu following the capture of Goma, the province’s key city. This week, approximately 700 individuals have reportedly lost their lives amid the conflict, as the military strives to reclaim lost territories. Recent recaptures include the villages of Sanzi, Muganzo, and Mukwidja, although the Congolese forces have experienced significant casualties, including the loss of foreign mercenaries.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo involves various armed groups, with M23 being one of the most influential. Backed by Rwandan troops, M23 has taken aggressive actions, capturing critical locations and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. The central area of Goma acts as a humanitarian hub for millions displaced by conflict, and its capture has severely hindered aid operations, contributing to a dire situation for civilians.
The efforts of the Congolese army to repel the M23 rebels highlight the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo. The deaths of 700 individuals and the displacement of thousands underscore the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. Continued military setbacks threaten stability, while reports of human rights abuses remind the international community of the grave conditions faced by civilians in this region.
Original Source: apnews.com
