Congo’s Armed Forces Battle M23 Rebels in Goma as Protests Erupt Nationwide

Congo’s security forces are engaged in intense fighting with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in Goma, amid rising violence and protests in Kinshasa. The city’s humanitarian situation is dire, with critical access challenges for aid organizations. International condemnation of Rwanda’s involvement has emerged, as calls for renewed peace talks intensify. Goma’s future hangs in the balance as civilians bear the brunt of escalating hostilities.

Goma, in eastern Congo, is currently under siege as security forces combat Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who claimed control over the city. Gunfire and explosions were reported throughout the night, causing significant alarm within the densely populated urban area. The situation is dire, with Goma being a crucial hub for humanitarian efforts amid one of the world’s largest displacement crises, which affects over 6 million individuals in the region.

Once again, the M23 rebels have resurfaced after previous engagements, marking a troubling escalation in an already longstanding conflict that dates back over a decade. Goma was briefly occupied by the rebels in 2012 before international intervention led to their withdrawal. Following a resurgence in 2021, the current advance has captured several towns, raising concerns about further cataclysmic violence and instability.

The humanitarian impact in Goma is reaching alarming levels, with reports indicating at least 17 peacekeepers have been killed since the conflict reignited, including a recent attack near the airport. Bruno Lemarquis, the UN humanitarian coordinator, expressed grave concern over escalating violence, which has left civilians—particularly vulnerable populations such as newborns and pregnant women—at tremendous risk, including at medical facilities that have been struck by munitions.

Access to displaced individuals seeking assistance remains severely restricted, as key roads around Goma are blocked and the airport is no longer operational. This logistical stagnation complicates efforts by aid organizations to deliver essential supplies, worsening an already critical humanitarian crisis wherein millions are in need of basic necessities.

In response to the rising tensions, international voices including the United States and the United Kingdom are collaboratively condemning Rwanda’s involvement in supporting the rebels. The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of escalating the situation, which has led U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to urge President Félix Tshisekedi to commence peace talks promptly with Rwanda to de-escalate the ongoing conflict and alleviate humanitarian suffering.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo is deeply entwined with regional geopolitics and ethnic tensions. The M23 rebel group, which has previously occupied Goma, continues to be a significant threat, backed by Rwanda, according to various reports by the Congolese government and United Nations experts. This long-standing instability has resulted in a humanitarian disaster, marked by millions of internally displaced individuals and a dire need for humanitarian assistance in the region. The situation is further exacerbated by the complexities of international relations, and reconciliation efforts remain elusive amidst the violence.

In summary, the situation in Goma reflects a significant exacerbation of conflict driven by the M23 rebels backed by Rwanda. The humanitarian crisis is rapidly worsening, placing additional strain on already scarce resources and the capability of aid agencies to respond. Urgent international intervention and dialogue between Congo and Rwanda are critically needed to address this escalating violence and foster a resolution to an enduring humanitarian catastrophe.

Original Source: apnews.com