Renewed Conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo Amid Ceasefire Calls
Fighting resumed in eastern DRC as M23 rebels attacked Congolese army positions, shortly after a ceasefire call by African leaders. The M23 group, deemed a terrorist organization by DRC, remains supported by claims of Rwandan interference. The humanitarian situation in Goma worsens, while the calls for international de-escalation intensify as violence continues to plague the region.
On Tuesday, fighting resumed in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo just days after African leaders called for a ceasefire, indicating a brief cessation of hostilities. M23 rebel forces launched an attack against Congolese army positions in South Kivu province at dawn. The DRC government classifies the M23 group as a terrorist organization, which the United Nations and the United States refer to as an armed rebel group. Accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 remain a contentious issue, which Rwanda denies.
Recent calls for an “unconditional” ceasefire by African leaders came in light of the conflict’s devastating toll, which has resulted in thousands of deaths and displacements. Since late 2021, the M23 has rapidly retaken significant territories in mineral-rich eastern DRC. They intensified their operations following the capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, at the end of last month. On Tuesday, clashes were reported near Ihusi village, approximately 70 kilometers from Bukavu and 40 kilometers from the provincial airport.
Several sources noted the sounds of heavy weaponry in the area, raising concerns over an impending offensive. In preparation for a possible M23 attack, Bukavu has experienced school closures and shop shutdowns, while banks also remained closed on Tuesday. The fall of Bukavu would grant the M23 full control over Lake Kivu, further destabilizing the region. Presently, nearly 300 Congolese soldiers face trial for severe charges, including murder and looting.
The M23 proclaims a desire to topple President Felix Tshisekedi and has recently tried to encircle army supply lines. However, Burundian troops—approximately 10,000 strong—supporting the Congolese military, have halted their advances. In Goma, the M23 has initiated administrative operations, including the establishment of a police force as humanitarian conditions deteriorate, exacerbating issues such as cholera.
The humanitarian crisis is dire, with the region lacking adequate drinking water, forcing residents to utilize contaminated sources. Despite the urgent need, Goma’s airport remains non-operational, hampering relief efforts, while significant discussions at the African Union in Addis Ababa are anticipated regarding the ongoing crisis.
The international community has amplified calls for de-escalation as fears grow over potential regional conflict. Efforts to diplomatically resolve the extended conflict have failed, while the DRC continues to press for targeted sanctions against Rwanda, citing resource exploitation concerns. Conversely, Rwanda maintains that its actions are aimed at mitigating threats posed by armed groups.
Amid these tensions, additional violence has erupted in Ituri province. A militia attack from the Lendu community resulted in the death of 51 individuals, primarily displaced persons, which underscores the continuing cycle of violence in the DRC that has persisted for over three decades.
The resurgence of fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo underscores the persistent instability in the region, exacerbated by complex geopolitical tensions, accusations of foreign interference, and internal rivalries among various armed groups. Despite calls for ceasefires and diplomatic resolutions, the conflict remains unresolved, leading to significant humanitarian crises. The international community must enhance efforts to facilitate peace and security in DRC, underscoring the urgency of addressing both the immediate and long-term challenges facing the nation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
