Residents of Goma, eastern Congo, are in fear after Rwanda-backed M23 rebels claimed they had taken control of the city, leading to intense gunfire and violent clashes with Congolese security forces. The M23’s escalation of hostilities raises concerns about further instability in a region already plagued by a humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
Residents of Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, awoke in fear on Monday after rebels purportedly backed by Rwanda claimed to have seized control of the city. Gunfire erupted overnight, and military-clad men were spotted marching through the city. It remains uncertain if these individuals belonged to the M23 rebel group, which has a history of conflict in the region and is known for its military presence supported by Rwanda, a claim Rwanda has denied.
The M23 group, one of many armed factions in the conflict-ridden eastern Congo, temporarily occupied Goma in 2012 and re-emerged in late 2021. Experts warn that this latest escalation could further destabilize a region already plagued by humanitarian crises, with about 6 million people displaced, including over a third of North Kivu’s population. The United Nations (U.N.) Security Council has condemned the M23 for its actions and demanded an end to the attacks.
In a statement issued late Sunday, the M23 declared it had captured Goma as a deadline for the Congolese forces to surrender approached. The rebels encouraged residents to stay calm while they urged Congolese military forces to gather at the local stadium. The Congolese government labeled the situation as a war and criticized Rwanda for its alleged aggression, leading to severed diplomatic ties.
In response to the violence, many residents fled Goma, carrying their belongings towards Rwanda as they sought safety. One resident recounted seeing troops at the border throwing bombs and firing weapons, prompting their decision to escape. The U.N. representative for Congo reported dire conditions, indicating that citizens felt trapped due to blocked roads and a shutdown airport.
Recent hostilities have resulted in the deaths of at least 13 U.N. peacekeepers over the past week. The U.N. peacekeeping force, known as MONUSCO, has been present in Congo for over twenty years and currently has around 14,000 personnel deployed. In a separate statement, Uruguayan military officials serving in Goma indicated that more than 100 Congolese soldiers had surrendered to the M23 rebels.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has faced ongoing conflict for decades, particularly in its eastern regions, which are rich in minerals. The M23 rebel group has become prominent in this violence, often receiving external support that exacerbates tensions. The international community has engaged through the U.N. to address the humanitarian crisis, involving millions displaced and widespread violence. Ongoing diplomatic efforts have been complicated by allegations of foreign interference, particularly from neighboring Rwanda, which the DRC accuses of backing rebel activities.
The situation in Goma underscores the precarious balance of power in eastern Congo as the M23 rebel group asserts control amid escalating violence. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen, with significant displacement and loss of life, including among peacekeeping forces. The stalled diplomatic relations between the DRC and Rwanda pose additional challenges for peace efforts in the region, raising concerns about future stability and security for vulnerable populations.
Original Source: apnews.com
