M23 rebels have seized Goma, DRC’s eastern capital, after fierce clashes with Congolese forces. They now control critical infrastructure, leaving civilians in dire straits. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and residents face severe shortages. This takeover highlights the continuing instability in the region and the humanitarian challenges that lie ahead.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have taken full control of Goma, the regional capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), after three days of intense fighting against Congolese forces. They now oversee the city’s airport and the border with Rwanda, marking a significant victory as gunfire and artillery from the Rwandan side have subsided.
The takeover of Goma has forced thousands of civilians, particularly women and children, to seek refuge deeper within the city as they escape the violence. With the territory now under rebel control, the plight of those displaced by the M23 insurgency is exacerbated.
Hospitals in Goma are overwhelmed with injured civilians who were caught in the conflict. Many residents are trapped in their homes, suffering from outages in electricity, running water, and mobile internet service. The M23’s capture of this city highlights their control over valuable resources and strategic routes in the eastern DRC, despite Goma’s seemingly limited economic significance.
The situation remains precarious as civilians now face the uncertain realities of life under M23’s rule. The humanitarian crisis is deepening, emphasizing the urgent need for international attention and intervention in the region.
The M23 rebel group, involved in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, has origins linked to a previous rebellion and has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda. Goma, as a significant urban center, has historically been a refuge for many fleeing violence across the region. The context of this capture illustrates the persistent instability in the DRC, particularly in areas rich in natural resources but plagued by conflict.
In summary, the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have strategically captured Goma, making significant territorial gains. This development brings severe humanitarian challenges for civilians, many of whom are now under rebel rule. The situation underscores the urgent need for solutions to the ongoing crisis in the DRC and emphasizes the implications of external support in regional conflicts.
Original Source: news.sky.com
