Three South African peacekeepers were killed in escalating violence in the eastern DRC, as fighting between the Congolese army and M23 rebels intensifies around Goma. The international community has condemned Rwanda’s support for the M23, calling for immediate withdrawal and a ceasefire, while the UN initiates evacuations amid rising tensions.
Three South African peacekeepers tragically lost their lives in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amid intensifying clashes between the Congolese army and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. These developments come despite international appeals for a ceasefire, as the M23 continues to threaten the city of Goma, home to over a million residents. Recent advancements in fighting around Goma have persisted, particularly following unsuccessful peace talks led by Angola.
Witnesses reported seeing a severely damaged UN peacekeeping vehicle near the intense fighting zones close to Goma. While Goma’s shops remained operational on Saturday, the sound of artillery fire echoed, reflecting the ongoing instability. Fighting has escalated significantly in the area, putting Goma under substantial military pressure.
The European Union has firmly condemned Rwanda’s military involvement in the DRC, urging its withdrawal and expressing deep concern over the humanitarian and security implications of M23’s actions around Goma. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated that the situation poses a serious threat, with potential consequences for regional stability and humanitarian safety.
UN operations in Goma have also been affected, as staff began evacuating to neighboring countries amid escalating violence. The UN peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO) indicated active engagement against M23 positions and cited the presence of approximately 15,000 peacekeepers in the DRC. In response to the recent violence, three South African military peacekeepers have been confirmed dead, with numerous injuries reported.
The UN Security Council has convened an emergency meeting to address the urgent crisis, following reports noting that over 100 individuals were injured in the fighting surrounding Goma since Thursday, requiring medical assistance from the International Committee of the Red Cross. Displacement has surged, with an estimated 400,000 individuals forcibly removed from their homes since early January, exacerbating years of chronic conflict in the region.
This prolonged conflict, involving M23’s previous hold over Goma in 2012, has been punctuated by unsuccessful diplomatic efforts. Attempts to mediate between DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame failed in December due to disagreements over ceasefire terms. The complex dynamics continue to entice foreign mediation efforts, with expressions of potential Turkish involvement to aid peace processes in the region.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC involves persistent violence fueled by the M23 rebel group and alleged Rwandan military support. Goma, a significant urban center, has been a focal point for such confrontations, with historical tensions and accusations of resource exploitation by neighboring Rwanda. The situation remains precarious, with numerous failed diplomatic initiatives and a rising humanitarian crisis leading to significant efforts by international bodies to mediate and stabilize the region.
In summary, the recent deaths of South African peacekeepers amid escalating conflicts in the DRC highlight the dire situation in the region. The ongoing clashes between M23 rebels and the Congolese army, despite international calls for ceasefire, underline the urgent need for effective diplomatic resolutions. With significant humanitarian repercussions and heightened military pressures on Goma, the international community continues to advocate for immediate action to restore peace and stability.
Original Source: www.france24.com
