The M23 rebels in eastern DRC have escalated violence, claiming control of Goma. Recent reports indicate the conflict has resulted in the deaths of peacekeepers and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. The group, fighting for ethnic Tutsi rights and resource control, has allegedly received support from Rwanda, complicating the conflict’s resolution.

The resurgence of violence in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been fueled by the M23 rebel group, which claims control over Goma, a significant city in the region. This escalation has led to the deaths of at least 13 international peacekeepers and the displacement of over 400,000 individuals, marking one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

The eastern DRC has been plagued by ethnic tensions and resource-driven conflicts since the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The M23 group, primarily composed of former Congolese soldiers, emerged from a 2009 peace agreement that has been largely disregarded by the government. Their actions are not only a response to discrimination against ethnic Tutsis but are also aimed at controlling valuable mineral resources such as gold and coltan, critical for modern consumer electronics.

The situation in the DRC remains precarious, with the M23 group continuing its military offensives under the claim of protecting ethnic Tutsis. Despite international peacekeeping efforts, violence persists, influenced by external factors, including the alleged backing of Rwandan forces. The ongoing turmoil highlights the complex interplay of ethnic politics and resource exploitation in the region, necessitating urgent global attention and intervention.

Original Source: theweek.com