The US, UK, and France have urged their nationals to evacuate Goma amid escalating battles between M23 rebels and the Congolese army. The violence has led to a humanitarian crisis, with over 400,000 people displaced this year alone. Failed peace talks have intensified the conflict, prompting concerns from the UN regarding potential regional implications.
As M23 rebels approach Goma, a critical city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France have called for their citizens to evacuate the area. Increased clashes between the Congolese army and the rebels have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, causing a rapid deterioration of the security situation following failed peace talks.
M23 forces, supported by Rwandan troops, have expanded their territorial claims in eastern DRC in the past several weeks, surrounding Goma, which has a population of one million. The three countries issued warnings through various channels urging nationals to leave Goma while borders and airports remain operational.
The United Nations reported that the escalating conflict in North Kivu province has displaced over 400,000 individuals this year, heightening concerns of a broader regional war. “The number of displacements is now over 400,000 people this year alone, almost double the number reported last week,” stated Matthew Saltmarsh, a spokesman for the UN refugee agency.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed alarm over the resumption of hostilities, emphasizing the critical toll on civilians. His spokesperson remarked that the offensive poses a severe threat to the civilian population and called for an immediate cessation of violence.
Clashes erupted near Goma, with reports of intense fighting along the Kanyamahoro-Kibumba axis. Furthermore, Congolese helicopters targeted M23 positions outside Sake, a town significantly impacted by the conflict. The military has deployed gunships and armored vehicles to counter the M23’s advances.
As civilians continue to flee the violence, many are forced to seek refuge in central Goma. This cycle of violence in eastern DRC has persisted for three decades, with the M23 previously occupying the city before being expelled by the Congolese military, supported by UN forces.
Efforts to diplomatically resolve the ongoing crisis have faced considerable setbacks. A recent meeting between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame was canceled due to disagreements, although Turkey has offered to mediate the conflict.
The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has its roots in decades of instability characterized by armed groups vying for control amid economic struggles and ethnic tensions. Goma serves as a strategic and populous city subject to repeated incursions by rebel forces, notably the M23, which has been involved in various conflicts over the years. The situation is further complicated by accusations of Rwandan support for the M23, contributing to regional tensions. Humanitarian crises are frequent in this area, with displaced populations often facing dire conditions amid ongoing violence.
The international community’s urgent call for evacuation from Goma highlights the deteriorating situation as armed conflict escalates. The alarming displacement of over 400,000 people in 2023 underscores the humanitarian crisis resulting from failed peace processes. With ongoing military confrontations and significant civilian impacts, the need for diplomatic resolutions remains critical to preventing further instability in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
