Tensions Escalate in Goma as Rwanda-Backed Rebels Claim Control

Goma’s residents face unrest as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels claim control of the city, leading to gunfire and fear. The U.N. Security Council has condemned the rebels’ actions, amid heightened military tensions and escalating humanitarian crises affecting millions in eastern Congo.

Residents of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, awoke to fear and uncertainty on Monday following claims by Rwanda-backed rebels, the M23, that they had seized control of the city. Gunfire was reported overnight, and early Monday, men in military uniforms were seen entering Goma, but it remains unclear if they are indeed M23 rebels, as the Congolese government has not confirmed the reported takeover.

The M23 group, supported by Rwanda, is one of numerous armed groups active in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Having temporarily captured Goma in 2012, the group resurfaced in late 2021 with alleged increased backing from Rwanda, which has denied such claims. The resurgence of this conflict raises concerns about further destabilization of a region already facing severe humanitarian crises, with over 6 million displaced individuals.

The United Nations Security Council responded to the situation by condemning the M23’s actions and demanding an immediate cessation of hostilities. The Council specifically condemned violations of DRC sovereignty, urging the rebels to retract their advances and refrain from establishing parallel administrations in Congolese territory.

On Monday, the M23 declared they had captured Goma precisely as their ultimatum for Congolese security forces to surrender weapons was about to expire. The rebels called for the military to congregate at the central stadium and urged local residents to remain calm amid the chaos.

Congolese officials have reported a war scenario and accused Rwanda of direct aggression towards DRC, even severing diplomatic ties over the weekend after failed discussions. The reported events mark a significant escalation in conflict, with many residents attempting to flee Goma due to fears of violence, carrying their belongings as they sought refuge across the border into Rwanda.

At a recent emergency U.N. Security Council meeting, Bintou Keita, the U.N. special representative for Congo, expressed urgency, stating, “we are trapped” because of airport closures and blocked roads. Tragically, at least 13 U.N. peacekeepers have lost their lives amid the recent violence, with more than 14,000 peacekeepers deployed in the area as part of the MONUSCO mission.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, primarily due to struggles over control of rich mineral resources and the activities of numerous armed groups. The M23 emerged from earlier conflicts and has a history of engagement in battles against Congolese security forces, often with alleged backing from neighboring Rwanda, escalating tensions in an already fraught region. The complex geopolitical dynamics and humanitarian implications underline the urgent need for international attention and conflict resolution.

The situation in Goma highlights the continual struggles faced by the Democratic Republic of the Congo against armed group insurgencies, particularly the influence of Rwanda-aligned M23 rebels. With escalating violence and humanitarian crises impacting millions, a concerted international effort is vital to restore stability and support the local population in coping with the ongoing challenges.

Original Source: apnews.com