International Call for Evacuation as Fighting Escalates in Goma, DRC

As clashes intensify between M23 rebels and the Congolese army, the US, UK, and France have urged their nationals to leave Goma. The situation has worsened due to failed peace talks, leading to a humanitarian crisis affecting over 400,000 displaced individuals. Diplomatic efforts remain stalled, raising fears of a broader conflict in the region.

As tensions escalate in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, M23 rebels advance on the city of Goma, prompting urgent calls from the United States, United Kingdom, and France for their nationals to evacuate. With the Congolese army engaged in intense clashes with the rebels, a humanitarian crisis has emerged, exacerbated by the failure of diplomatic negotiations involving Congolese and Rwandan leaders.

M23 fighters, reportedly supported by Rwandan troops, have successfully seized significant territories in the region, resulting in a humanitarian crisis that threatens the population of Goma, a city housing over one million residents. The embassies have urged citizens to leave while airport and border access remains feasible, indicating a deteriorating security scenario.

The United Nations reported that the escalating conflict has displaced over 400,000 individuals this year, almost doubling previous estimates. UNHCR spokesperson Matthew Saltmarsh expressed grave concerns for the safety of civilians and internally displaced persons in eastern Congo, as heavy bombardments force families to seek refuge within Goma amid deteriorating living conditions.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgent need for an immediate cessation of violence, highlighting the conflict’s toll on the civilian population. Clashes have erupted dangerously close to Goma, as security sources confirmed ongoing exchanges of fire, emphasizing the immediate threat the M23 poses just kilometers from the city center.

In response to the rising tensions, the Congolese army has deployed helicopters to counter the M23 offensive, while medical teams in Goma have treated numerous casualties. Despite over 30 years of conflict in eastern DRC, diplomatic efforts to address the crisis have consistently failed, underscoring the complex challenges within the region.

In December, talks between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame collapsed due to a lack of consensus, while Turkey extended an offer to mediate the DRC-Rwanda situation. Past ceasefires have been repeatedly violated, leaving the region in turmoil with no signs of resolution.

The situation in Goma is characterized by ongoing violence from M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwandan military forces. A history of conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has culminated in humanitarian crises, particularly affecting Goma, a major urban center. Diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region have largely failed, leading to repeated cycles of violence and displacement of local populations. This crisis has gained international attention, signalling the need for urgent intervention and awareness of the humanitarian impact on civilians.

The ongoing hostilities in eastern DRC have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, leading to significant civilian displacement and regional instability. The international community has taken note of the escalating conflict, with calls for evacuation and urgent diplomatic intervention. Without effective negotiations and ceasefires, the potential for broader regional conflict remains a serious concern, highlighting the need for continued global attention and support towards peace initiatives in the region.

Original Source: www.france24.com