Battles in eastern DR Congo, particularly outside Goma, have escalated, prompting a warning to citizens from the UK, US, and France to evacuate. The UN reports significant military engagement with M23 fighters, leading to over 400,000 displacements this year. The humanitarian crisis grows alongside fears of a regional conflict, compelling an emergency meeting by the UN Security Council.
On Friday, clashes erupted between the army of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) and M23 fighters near Goma, prompting the governments of the UK, US, and France to advise their citizens to evacuate the city. This warning comes as the situation in the eastern region, plagued by violence since failed peace negotiations, risks escalating into a more severe humanitarian crisis, especially as the militia group, bolstered by Rwandan forces, expands its territorial control.
The UN mission in DR Congo, known as MONUSCO, has reported that its peacekeepers are actively engaged in combat with M23 fighters, utilizing heavy artillery against their positions. As a result of the ongoing violence in North Kivu province, over 400,000 individuals have been displaced this year alone, further heightening fears of a potential regional conflict.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed alarm regarding the renewed fighting, with UNHCR spokesman Matthew Saltmarsh revealing the scale of displacement, which has nearly doubled within a week. The humanitarian situation is dire, with civilians fleeing towards Goma in search of shelter amidst heavy bombardments.
Military operations were reported about 20 kilometers west of Goma, where Congolese helicopters were seen targeting M23 positions. In the midst of these developments, DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi convened a defense council meeting, following a prior crisis meeting. Unfortunately, the military governor of North Kivu, General Peter Cirimwami, was confirmed dead following an attack near the frontline.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has long been embroiled in conflict, particularly in the eastern regions rich in minerals. The resurgence of the M23 militia, reportedly supported by Rwandan troops, has exacerbated the already volatile situation. Failed peace talks have led to significant territorial gains by the militia, resulting in a humanitarian crisis characterized by mass displacements and an escalating conflict involving multiple stakeholders, including international entities like the UN.
The intensifying conflict between the DR Congo army and M23 fighters presents a grave humanitarian concern, with significant displacement recorded in recent weeks. The involvement of MONUSCO peacekeepers and the international community’s reaction underscores the urgency of the situation as it threatens to destabilize the region further. Ongoing military actions and leadership meetings signal a critical juncture in efforts to restore peace and security in eastern DR Congo.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
