Congo’s security forces are engaged in combat with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advancing in Goma, triggering a serious escalation in the longstanding conflict. The situation has led to growing humanitarian concerns, with reports of civilian casualties and limitations on aid access. International condemnation mounts against Rwanda, while protests erupt in Kinshasa seeking governmental accountability and action.
On Tuesday, the security forces of Congo engaged in combat with Rwanda-backed rebels who have made significant advances in the eastern city of Goma, marking a troubling escalation in a protracted conflict. Residents reported persistent gunfire and explosions, particularly near the Goma airport, which is currently closed. The situation has incited fear among Goma’s two million inhabitants.
Goma serves as a crucial trade and humanitarian center, housing countless individuals displaced by eastern Congo’s enduring conflict, which centers on ethnic tensions and has become one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally. The M23 rebels, among approximately 100 active armed groups, have temporarily taken Goma before and re-emerged in late 2021. The Congolese government and UN experts have alleged that Rwanda is providing support to these rebels, although Rwanda denies these claims.
The extent of the rebels’ control over Goma remains unclear. Some residents expressed mixed feelings, ranging from fear to optimism over the rebels’ presence. Reports indicate ongoing violence, including near-misses from shelling and ambassadors from surrounding areas who have incurred serious casualties. Recent attacks have resulted in the deaths of three South African peacekeepers and numerous injuries to civilians.
UN humanitarian coordinators have voiced severe concern regarding the escalating humanitarian crisis, noting that the violence has displaced even more individuals. With active combat reported throughout Goma, humanitarian access is severely limited. Aid organizations are finding it increasingly difficult to reach those in need as critical transportation routes and the airport have become inaccessible, leading to widespread shortages of food and water.
The international community, including the United States, United Kingdom, and France, has condemned the situation, placing blame on Rwanda for supporting the rebels. During a call between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, both leaders recognized the necessity of reviving peace negotiations between Congo and Rwanda.
In Kinshasa, protests erupted against Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the conflict, with opposition leader Martin Fayulu criticizing President Tshisekedi for not responding decisively. Fayulu emphasized the need for unity against Rwanda, threatening that failure to act may lead to repercussions for Tshisekedi concerning his leadership.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has spanned several decades, rooted in ethnic tensions and the struggle for control over abundant natural resources. Goma, as a key regional hub, has become a focal point for both humanitarian crises and military action, often caught in the crossfire between various armed groups. The presence of international forces, especially peacekeepers, complicates the dynamics, while accusations about external support, particularly involving Rwanda, continue to exacerbate tensions. The humanitarian impact grows as millions remain displaced within the country, underscoring the complexity of peace talks and conflict resolution efforts in the region.
The escalation of violence in Goma underscores a significant deterioration in the humanitarian and security situation in eastern Congo. With Rwanda’s alleged backing of the M23 rebels, the international community has responded with condemnation, while the Congolese government faces internal pressure to act. As protests erupt in the capital and humanitarian access remains critically impaired, immediate steps towards peace negotiations are essential to avert further catastrophe and restore order in the region.
Original Source: www.local10.com
