Fear engulfed Goma, Congo, as M23 rebels claimed control of the city, raising concerns over regional stability and humanitarian crises. Gunfire was reported as residents began fleeing. The U.N. condemned the M23’s actions amidst fears that diplomatic relations between Congo and Rwanda could worsen further, exacerbating the humanitarian situation.
Residents of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, awoke to confusion and fear as Rwanda-backed rebels, known as M23, claimed to have captured the city. Gunfire was heard throughout the night, and armed men in military uniforms were seen entering Goma in the morning. Their presence was met with mixed reactions from residents, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the control of the city, which is the capital of North Kivu province.
The M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, has been a significant force in eastern Congo and has previously captured Goma in 2012. They resurfaced in late 2021 and have been increasingly active amid ongoing conflicts involving numerous armed groups in a region rich in minerals. Despite the rebels’ claims, the Congolese government has not verified their reported takeover.
Analysts have expressed concern that the escalating conflict could exacerbate already dire humanitarian conditions, with over 6 million people displaced in the region. More than one-third of North Kivu’s population consists of internally displaced persons, according to United Nations statistics. As fighting intensified, the U.N. Security Council condemned the M23’s actions and called for the immediate reversal of their advances.
In a recent communication, the M23 announced the city’s capture while issuing a surrender ultimatum to Congolese forces. They urged residents to remain calm, yet the Congolese government has declared a state of war, accusing Rwanda of aggression. Diplomatic relations between the two nations have deteriorated significantly, complicating the situation further.
As Goma descended into turmoil, residents began fleeing towards the Rwandan border, carrying their belongings in search of safety. “We are fleeing because we saw soldiers on the border with Rwanda throwing bombs and shooting,” stated a local resident. Meanwhile, the U.N.’s special representative remarked on the dire situation, highlighting that many were effectively trapped as fighting led to closed airports and blocked roads.
Casualties among U.N. peacekeepers have also risen, with reports of at least 13 fatalities in recent clashes. The peacekeeping mission, known as MONUSCO, has been present in Congo for over two decades, currently deploying around 14,000 personnel. In a concerning development, the Uruguayan troops serving with MONUSCO reported that over 100 Congolese soldiers had surrendered their weapons amidst the chaos.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, particularly in North Kivu province, is a result of a complex interplay of local and international dynamics, involving multiple armed groups and regional actors. The M23 rebels, who have a history of conflict with Congolese forces, have been accused of receiving support from Rwanda, a claim that the Rwandan government has consistently denied. The region remains one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian crises, with widespread displacement and suffering among the civilian population.
In summary, the situation in Goma highlights the severe instability facing eastern Congo as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels assert control over the city. The international community remains alarmed, as escalating hostilities contribute to a worsening humanitarian crisis. The Congolese government’s claims of war and Rwanda’s alleged involvement further complicate diplomatic relations, prompting urgent calls for peace and the protection of civilians.
Original Source: apnews.com
