Urgent Departures Recommended for Nationals in Goma as Violence Escalates

As M23 rebels advance towards Goma, the US, UK, and France have advised their nationals to evacuate the city amid worsening violence and a humanitarian crisis. The United Nations reported over 400,000 displaced individuals this year due to the escalating conflict, with international leaders urging for a ceasefire and diplomatic negotiations to avert a regional war.

In light of escalating tensions and violence in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the United States, United Kingdom, and France advised their citizens to depart from the city. Clashes between the Congolese military and M23 rebels, who have received support from Rwandan forces, have culminated in a significant humanitarian crisis, prompting urgent international warnings regarding the deteriorating situation.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of over 400,000 individuals this year alone, amounting to almost double the previous week’s figures. Matthew Saltmarsh, a representative from the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), highlighted the plight of civilians, exacerbated by heavy bombardments forcing families to seek refuge within Goma, where many have been left homeless and vulnerable.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the renewed hostilities that threaten not only the local population but also the potential for broader regional conflict. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Guterres condemned the offensive and called for an immediate cessation of violence to safeguard civilians and ensure stability.

As clashes intensified near Goma, military action has escalated, with Congolese army helicopters engaging M23 fighters in an effort to protect the city. Reports indicate that fighting continues in the nearby town of Sake, and several armored personnel carriers from the United Nations peacekeeping mission have been deployed to support the Congolese forces as the humanitarian crisis deepens.

Historically, Goma has been a center of violence over the past three decades, with M23 previously occupying the city in 2012 before it was recaptured. Diplomatic negotiations to resolve the persistent conflict have repeatedly faltered, and a recent peace process initiated by Angola has stalled due to disputes between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for many years, particularly in its eastern regions. The M23 rebel group, formed from previous combatants, has been implicated in various hostilities, exacerbating regional tensions, especially with Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the rebels. The scale of the humanitarian crises resulting from these conflicts necessitates urgent international intervention and support, given that a significant portion of the civilian population is now displaced. The failure of diplomatic efforts has led to increased international concern over the potential for wider conflict in the region, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable solution.

The situation in Goma continues to deteriorate rapidly with significant military confrontations between Congolese forces and M23 rebels, leading to a considerable humanitarian crisis. International governments have warned their nationals to leave, signaling the gravity of the conflict. The ongoing violence has displaced hundreds of thousands, underscoring the crucial importance of reinstating diplomatic measures to prevent further escalation of hostilities.

Original Source: www.france24.com