Goma, DRC, faces escalating turmoil as pro-Rwanda M23 forces capture the airport amidst intense fighting, resulting in over 100 deaths and nearly 1,000 injuries. The humanitarian situation worsens, with many fleeing to safety. Protests target foreign embassies in Kinshasa, while the international community calls for an end to hostilities and stronger action against the ongoing violence.
Recent clashes have escalated in Goma, a city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), after pro-Rwanda forces captured the local airport, resulting in over 100 fatalities and nearly 1,000 injuries in just three days. The Tutsi-led M23 group and its Rwandan allies are tightening their grip on the eastern DRC, threatening the Congolese military’s control in a region rich in minerals. ?Street-to-street combat has caused extensive damage, leaving many areas under M23 control uncertain.
The takeover of Goma’s airport signifies a major setback for the Congolese army, which has been losing control of key territories in North Kivu province. On Sunday, M23 forces had entered central Goma, leading to violent confrontations that have rendered the city streets desolate. Reports indicate that more than 1,200 Congolese soldiers have surrendered amid the ongoing chaos, prompting fears of deepening humanitarian crises.
The situation in Goma has resulted in humanitarian concerns, as the UN has reported hundreds of thousands displaced, food shortages, and overwhelmed medical facilities. An influx of injured individuals has led to dire conditions in local hospitals, prompting the International Committee of the Red Cross to respond. Nearby, individuals like Destin Jamaica Kela described horrific scenes of violence that prompted many to flee across the border into Rwanda.
Amid the turmoil, protests erupted in Kinshasa, targeting various embassies from nations perceived as involved in the conflict. The US Embassy advised its citizens to leave the DRC following attacks, while EU officials condemned the violence. The UN Security Council discussed the impacts of fighting, which has been exacerbated by ethnic tensions reminiscent of past conflicts.
The African Union has called upon the M23 to cease hostilities, albeit without naming Rwanda directly. The DRC government has accused Rwanda of exploiting the nation’s mineral wealth, urging the UN to take more decisive action. In the backdrop of these developments, regional leaders, including those from Kenya, are set to hold crisis talks to address the escalating conflict, while concerns mount over the safety of stored pathogens amid the fighting.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has a long history of conflict, with the eastern region particularly affected due to its vast mineral resources and ethnic tensions. The resurgence of the M23 armed group, believed to be supported by Rwandan forces, has reignited fears of violence reminiscent of events following the Rwandan genocide. This situation has led to severe humanitarian crises, with large numbers of internally displaced persons and overwhelmed health facilities. The UN and various international entities are focusing on stabilizing the region and addressing the ongoing humanitarian needs.
In summary, Goma is on the brink of collapse as pro-Rwanda forces secure control of the airport, resulting in significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis. The international community is deeply concerned about the resurgence of ethnic violence and potential exploitation of the DRC’s resources. Urgent measures are being sought by regional and international actors to quell the fighting and provide assistance to affected populations.
Original Source: www.wfxg.com
