M23 Rebels Capture Walikale Town in Eastern Congo Amid Ceasefire Efforts
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have captured the town of Walikale in eastern Congo, defying ceasefire calls amid ongoing conflict in the region. This development enhances the rebels’ strategic control over key transport routes, while accusing Congolese forces of targeting civilians. The humanitarian impact is severe, with over seven million displaced amidst escalating violence and instability.
On Thursday, M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, seized the strategic town of Walikale in eastern Congo, despite recent calls for a ceasefire from both Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This conflict escalated significantly in January when the rebels captured Goma, followed by Bukavu in February. The rebels’ offensive took place immediately after diplomatic discussions aimed at establishing an immediate ceasefire in Qatar.
The M23 insurgents declared they had liberated Walikale, a move that strategically enhances their control over a critical road connecting four provinces: North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema. This acquisition effectively isolates Congolese army positions. Local sources noted that rebel presence was evident in central Walikale, accompanied by heavy artillery fire that persisted throughout the day.
A statement from the M23 coalition claimed their incursion into Walikale aimed to safeguard the local population against bombardments by Congolese forces, whom they accused of indiscriminately attacking civilian areas. They assured a commitment to ceasefire, warning they would respond if provoked. The region is rich in minerals, particularly tin and gold, which have been integral to the local economy.
Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi expressed willingness to negotiate a deal concerning critical mineral exports with the United States, seeking to leverage U.S. influence to stabilize the situation against armed groups. The ongoing strife has contributed to a dire humanitarian crisis, displacing over seven million people while also drawing attention from international human rights organizations.
Doctors Without Borders reported direct impacts from the conflict on their operations in Walikale, with gunfire affecting their facilities. The situation remains precarious, as local residents fled the area in fear amid the escalating violence, reflecting the dire humanitarian implications of the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo.
The ongoing advances of the M23 rebels in Walikale highlight the fragile security situation in eastern Congo, exacerbated by external support from Rwanda. Despite calls for a ceasefire from regional leaders, the rebels continue to assert control in strategically vital areas, threatening local populations and complicating international diplomatic efforts. The humanitarian crisis resulting from this conflict necessitates urgent attention, as millions are displaced and critical infrastructure is jeopardized.
Original Source: www.newspressnow.com
