Fighting erupted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as M23 rebels attacked army positions, disregarding calls for a ceasefire. The conflict, which has persisted for over three years, has intensified, resulting in thousands of displacements and allegations of Rwandan support for the rebels. The international community calls for de-escalation as humanitarian conditions worsen.
On Tuesday, hostilities reignited in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, following a recent plea from African leaders for a ceasefire. M23 rebel fighters launched attacks against Congolese army positions in South Kivu province, amidst ongoing internal clashes. The DRC government labels M23 as a terrorist organization, while the United Nations and the United States categorize it as an armed rebel group, with allegations of Rwandan support for the rebels being firmly denied by Rwanda.
The fighting escalated shortly after regional leaders requested their military staffs to devise a plan for a comprehensive ceasefire, highlighting the need for immediate action to address a conflict that has displaced thousands. The M23 group has expanded its territorial control significantly since resuming hostilities in late 2021, seizing vital regions in resource-rich eastern Congo.
Recent developments indicate that M23 has advanced further after claiming control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, which borders Rwanda. Violent clashes erupted near Ihusi Village, approximately 70 kilometers from Bukavu, prompting significant concern among residents and local businesses. Bukavu has seen heightened pre-emptive measures against a potential M23 offensive, including the closure of schools and businesses.
The strategic capture of Bukavu would grant M23 comprehensive control over Lake Kivu, raising alarms regarding potential further territorial gains. Currently, almost 300 Congolese soldiers face military court charges relating to serious offenses, such as rape and murder. M23’s ambitions include overthrowing President Felix Tshisekedi and fortifying their influence by attempting to cut off supply lines for the DRC army.
Amidst the chaos, Burundian troops supporting the Congolese army have reportedly halted M23 advances, with an estimated 10,000 Burundian soldiers deployed in South Kivu. Meanwhile, reports highlight M23’s establishment of administrative structures and recruitment initiatives in Goma, stirring concerns about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in the city.
As cholera cases rise among displaced populations, the humanitarian crisis deepens. The airport in Goma remains closed despite calls for enabling humanitarian aid transport, showcasing the urgent need for international intervention. An upcoming African Union meeting in Addis Ababa will address this escalating crisis, amid rising global calls for de-escalation.
The DRC’s government continues to advocate for targeted sanctions against Rwanda, although these measures have proven largely ineffective. Kinshasa accuses Kigali of seeking to exploit DRC’s natural resources, compounded by accusations of armed group support linked to historical conflicts. Additionally, violence from ethnic militias in Ituri province has resulted in further civilian deaths, contributing to the country’s ongoing instability.
In summary, the recent resurgence of fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo highlights both the complexity and urgency of the ongoing conflict. The M23 rebels’ aggressive territorial expansion has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with regional support complicating the situation further. As diplomatic attempts at resolution continue to falter, an immediate need for international intervention and sustainable solutions is evident to alleviate the suffering of the Congolese populace.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
