The humanitarian crisis in Goma escalates as fighting between the M23 rebel group and Congolese forces intensifies. UN officials highlight the urgent need for international engagement to protect civilians and support humanitarian efforts amidst ongoing violence. Recent artillery attacks have devastated hospitals and essential services, adding to the plight of displaced persons in the region.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) intensifies as fighting escalates between the Congolese forces and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group. UN chief of Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix characterized the situation around Goma as “volatile and dangerous” during a briefing. He noted that some UN personnel were forced to shelter due to the conflict, impacting their capability to gather comprehensive information.
Mr. Lacroix emphasized the importance of safety for UN staff, stating that non-essential personnel and their families have been evacuated from Goma. Despite challenges, UN peacekeepers will continue their mandate to protect civilians and disarm fighters, adhering to international humanitarian law. He stated, “The fate of the millions of civilians in Goma or displaced is really the priority.”
Bruno Lemarquis, the UN Deputy Special Representative, painted a dire picture of the humanitarian situation in Goma. He highlighted that the region is already facing a severe crisis, with 6.5 million displaced people across the DRC. Civilians suffer the most from the escalating conflict, with recent artillery attacks harming hospitals and civilians, including vulnerable groups like pregnant women and newborns.
In order to improve the humanitarian situation, Mr. Lemarquis called for temporary pauses in hostilities to facilitate civilian evacuations and ensure aid deliveries. He stressed the need for immediate action to prevent further loss of life in Goma, where essential services have been disrupted and healthcare facilities are overwhelmed.
Regarding Rwanda’s involvement, Mr. Lacroix confirmed that Rwandan troops are supporting the M23 forces. He expressed concern over the deaths of peacekeepers, including three fatalities and numerous injuries among UN personnel. The UN urges all parties involved, including Rwanda, to prioritize the safety of UN staff during this crisis.
In light of escalating tensions, Mr. Lacroix reiterated the UN’s commitment to regional peace initiatives, highlighting upcoming meetings by the East African Community and the African Union. He also noted a $70 million fund allocation for humanitarian efforts as essential support in this crisis. At the conclusion of the press conference, Mr. Lacroix urged the international community to enhance their engagement to reduce bloodshed and contribute to humanitarian relief efforts.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been experiencing prolonged civil conflict, exacerbated by the presence of various armed groups, including the M23 rebels. Goma, a significant city in eastern DRC, is often at the center of hostilities, causing severe humanitarian crises with millions displaced. The UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) plays a vital role in attempting to stabilize the situation and provide humanitarian aid amidst ongoing violence.
The situation in Goma remains critical as conflict intensifies between M23 rebels and Congolese forces, prompting UN officials to call for urgent international assistance. The humanitarian crisis, impacting millions, necessitates immediate intervention to protect civilians and restore basic services. As violence threatens UN personnel and local communities, greater international engagement is essential to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Original Source: news.un.org
