Congolese troops successfully repelled a rebel advance on Goma, stabilizing the situation after heavy bombardments. The M23 insurgency has intensified, with additional territorial claims. Humanitarian crises continue to escalate, prompting U.S. and EU calls for an end to hostilities and Rwandan support for rebels.
On January 25, Congolese forces successfully repelled a nighttime advance by Rwandan-backed rebels on the city of Goma, as confirmed by two military sources. Following heavy bombardments in the early hours, the situation appeared stable by morning, with residents cautiously resuming their daily activities amidst a significant police presence. The M23 insurgency in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has intensified recently, with these rebels claiming to seize more territory than ever and expressing intentions to capture Goma.
Congolese military sources indicated that the army maintained a defensive position against the assault, effectively pushing the rebels back. An anonymous army officer reported that the military was able to maintain a distance from Goma, despite the rebels’ heavy weaponry targeting their defenses. The Congolese government has yet to comment on these developments.
The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about a potential regional war, with the United Nations accusing Rwanda of exacerbating tensions by providing military support to the rebels, a claim the Rwandan government has denied. Recently, a North Kivu military governor was killed in combat, alongside three South African servicemen, adding to the unrest in the region where foreign military assistance is actively involved.
The renewed hostilities have strained an already critical humanitarian situation, forcing an additional 400,000 individuals to flee their homes this year alone, according to the U.N. refugee agency. Human Rights Watch described the situation as increasingly perilous for Goma’s civilians, highlighting the severe humanitarian needs arising from this conflict. In response, the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the European Union have urged the M23 to halt its advances, with the EU specifically calling for an end to Rwandan support for these rebels.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has experienced ongoing conflict in its eastern regions, primarily due to the activities of various armed groups, including the M23, which has been particularly active since its resurgence in 2021. Tensions have escalated due to accusations against Rwanda for supporting these rebel factions, contributing to a wider humanitarian crisis that has displaced thousands. The DRC’s mineral wealth has often been at the center of such conflicts, attracting both national and international interests, complicating efforts towards peace and stability in the region.
The recent advances by Rwandan-backed rebels on Goma underscore the escalating crisis in eastern Congo, as Congolese forces strive to protect the city amid increased hostilities. The international community has urged the cessation of aggressions, specifically calling for Rwanda to withdraw support for the M23 rebels. With a dire humanitarian situation unfolding, the future stability of the region remains uncertain.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
