Amid escalating conflict in Goma, DRC, humanitarian organizations are pulling staff due to safety concerns following M23 rebels’ advances. The U.N. Security Council has condemned the violence, describing dire humanitarian conditions as routes are blocked and the airport is under rebel control. Calls for a ceasefire from international leaders highlight the urgent need for resolution in this escalating crisis.
Due to escalating conflict between M23 rebels and government forces in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), various humanitarian organizations are evacuating their personnel for safety reasons. This decision follows a declaration by the M23, reportedly supported by Rwanda, claiming control over Goma, the region’s largest city, which has a population of approximately 2 million.
Rose Tchwenko, Mercy Corps’ country director in the DRC, reported continuous monitoring of the conflict, particularly after strategic supply routes to Goma fell. She noted, “We made some decisions, first to move out non-essential staff,” stating that the security situation prompted the evacuation of even senior staff to Gisenyi in Rwanda.
The dire circumstances in Goma include the airport’s closure under M23 control, with sporadic fighting evident in the city. Reports of gunfire were corroborated by residents like Jack Mongi, who described the terrifying situation, saying, “As I speak, you can hear gunshots.”
At an emergency meeting on Sunday, the United Nations Security Council condemned the violence demanding an end to hostilities. Officials conveyed that critical routes are blocked, rendering evacuation and humanitarian access impossible, leading to the assertion that they are “trapped.”
The Congolese foreign minister described the situation as a “frontal assault, a declaration of war,” while the U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. emphasized the need for accountability regarding ongoing conflicts. Amidst these tensions, Kenyan President William Ruto announced talks with regional leaders, advocating for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The situation in eastern DRC is marked by an ongoing conflict between government forces and the M23 rebels, who have been advancing closer to Goma. This conflict has escalated rapidly, prompting humanitarian organizations to pull their staff due to safety concerns. The socio-political landscape is further complicated by accusations of Rwandan support for the M23 rebels, leading to significant international attention and calls for resolution. The unrest threatens not only the immediate area but also regional stability.
The escalation of violence in Goma has led to significant humanitarian implications, evidenced by the withdrawal of aid workers and civilian fear. The closure of the city’s airport and blocked access routes exacerbate the crisis, trapping both civilians and aid efforts. International responses, including calls for ceasefire, underline the seriousness of the conflict, as regional leaders seek to mediate and restore peace in the area. Overall, the situation remains critical, necessitating urgent attention from the international community to prevent further deterioration.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
