International Powers Urge Evacuation as Violence Intensifies in Goma, DRC

As M23 rebels approach Goma, the U.S., U.K., and France have urgently advised their citizens to evacuate. Clashes between the Congolese army and the rebels have led to a humanitarian crisis, displacing over 400,000 people this year. International efforts for peace have failed, and concerns about broader violence in the region continue to mount.

The M23 rebels are rapidly approaching Goma, a key city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, prompting the United States, United Kingdom, and France to strongly advise their nationals to evacuate the area. Ongoing clashes between the Congolese army and these rebels have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, as attempts to broker peace between Congolese and Rwandan officials have faltered. The international community has expressed grave concern over the conflict as it continues to escalate.

Intensifying fighting near Goma has raised alarms as the M23, supported by Rwandan forces, has gained significant territory, leading to a humanitarian crisis affecting approximately 400,000 displaced persons this year alone. The U.S., U.K., and France have communicated to their citizens that they should leave Goma while borders and air travel remain operational, indicating the precariousness of the situation. The United Nations has reported that violent conflict in North Kivu has significantly impacted civilian safety and security.

The UNHCR’s Matthew Saltmarsh highlighted the alarming number of displacements, noting the movement of families from various sites around Goma into the city for safety amidst heavy bombardments. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged an immediate end to hostilities, emphasizing the conflict’s severe toll on civilians and the potential for a broader regional war. Fighting has escalated near Goma, further complicating the situation.

As military operations continue, heavy artillery is being deployed by the Congolese army in an effort to counter the M23 advance. Reports indicate that military reinforcements, including helicopters and armored vehicles from the UN peacekeeping mission, are being mobilized to bolster the local forces. Meanwhile, medical teams are addressing the needs of the wounded in Goma’s hospitals as civilians flee toward the city seeking refuge.

The M23, which had previously seized Goma in late 2012, again threatens the city as diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions remain ineffective. A planned meeting between Congolese and Rwandan leaders recently fell through due to disagreements, despite international mediation attempts, including an offer from Turkey to facilitate talks. Various ceasefires and truces have been attempted over the years but have failed to achieve lasting peace, underscoring the complexity of the ongoing crisis.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has faced decades of violence, particularly in its eastern regions, where numerous armed groups, including the M23 rebels, vie for control. The M23, officially known as the March 23 Movement, has a history of conflict in the area, having briefly taken control of Goma in 2012. The region has witnessed continuous military engagements that have resulted in massive civilian displacements and humanitarian crises. Recent escalations in fighting have raised concerns about a potential regional conflict, prompting international calls for intervention and dialogue. The situation has further deteriorated following the failure of peace talks between DRC and Rwandan officials, which has incited fear of escalating instability and violence. The United Nations and other international bodies have expressed deep concern over the humanitarian impact, specifically the mass displacement of people and the intricacies of securing lasting peace in this volatile environment.

The situation in Goma, DRC, remains precarious as M23 rebels continue to advance, prompting urgent calls from the U.S., U.K., and France for their nationals to evacuate the area. The humanitarian crisis is intensifying, with significant civilian displacement reported due to ongoing fighting. Efforts for a peaceful resolution have largely failed, leaving the region vulnerable to further conflict and instability, necessitating immediate attention and action from the international community.

Original Source: www.france24.com