The G7 condemned the M23 offensive in eastern DRC and called for an immediate ceasefire. They emphasized the need to protect civilians and sought an end to all support for M23 rebels. The conflict has intensified a humanitarian crisis, displacing many. The G7 urged negotiations and reaffirmed support for UN missions in the area.
The G7 nations have denounced the ongoing military offensive by M23 in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In a statement released by the foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with the EU foreign policy chief, they called for an immediate cessation of hostilities by both M23 and the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF). They also emphasized the urgent need to ensure civilian protection amidst the escalation of violence.
The offensive, reportedly supported by Rwanda, has led to the claim of Goma’s capture by M23. Rwanda, however, refutes these allegations. The G7 has issued a strong statement urging an end to all forms of direct and indirect support for M23 and other non-state armed groups in the DRC, highlighting the offensive’s challenge to the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The continuing conflict has displaced numerous civilians in Goma and across eastern DRC and has exacerbated a humanitarian crisis characterized by food and water shortages. The G7 ministers expressed concern over the deteriorating humanitarian conditions resulting from the renewed offensive by M23 and RDF, urging for the safe passage of humanitarian aid.
Additionally, the group has requested a return to negotiations under the Luanda Process and called for M23 to withdraw from captured areas. They reaffirmed their support for the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) in its critical role to uphold civilian protection and stabilize the region amidst the ongoing crisis. M23 claims to be acting in defense of the rights of minority Congolese Tutsis who face discrimination related to their ethnic ties to Rwanda’s Tutsi population.
The situation in eastern Congo has been marked by a resurgence of violence involving the M23 rebel group, part of a broader conflict fueled by ethnic tensions and competition for natural resources. The M23, which accuses the DRC government of discrimination against Tutsis, has reemerged as a significant threat since its initial uprising years ago. The involvement of external actors, particularly allegations of Rwandan support, complicates an already delicate humanitarian and political landscape, necessitating concerted international efforts to stabilize the region and protect civilians.
In summary, the G7’s condemnation of the M23 offensive in the DRC underscores the urgent need for an end to hostilities and greater protection for civilians amidst growing humanitarian crises. Their request for diplomatic negotiations and support for UN missions illustrates the international community’s commitment to resolving this multifaceted conflict. The situation underscores the importance of respecting territorial integrity and addressing the root causes of ethnic conflict and humanitarian distress.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
