15 civilians, 2 peacekeepers dead in Goma Clashes -UN
At least 17 individuals have died due to violent clashes in Goma, involving M23 rebels and DRC forces, according to the UN.
The United Nations confirmed that two peacekeepers from its MONUSCO mission were among those who lost their lives.
“Eleven peacekeepers suffered injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the UN hospital located in Goma,” the UN stated.
Earlier on Monday, M23 declared they had captured Goma, which serves as the capital of North Kivu province.
The DRC government reacted strongly, labeling M23’s action a “declaration of war” by Rwanda, escalating tensions.
This escalation follows an intensification of the M23 rebellion in DRC’s mineral-rich eastern region, gaining more territory recently.
M23, which stands for the March 23 Movement, originally split from the DRC army over a decade ago.
Since its resurgence in 2022, this group has steadily progressed across eastern DRC, leading to significant unrest.
The DRC and the UN have claimed that Rwanda supplies troops and arms to support M23, but Rwanda refutes these claims.
This past weekend, the DRC announced a break in diplomatic relations with Rwanda, claiming ongoing support for the rebels.
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In a statement issued late Saturday, the Congolese foreign ministry confirmed the withdrawal of all diplomatic personnel from Rwanda.
The order took effect immediately, underlining the seriousness of the situation. Rwanda has yet to issue a response.
Last year, the country acknowledged, therefore, deploying troops and missile systems in eastern Congo to effectively protect its security interests.
As a result, the UN has expressed concerns, highlighting the risk of a broader regional conflict stemming from these tensions.
On Tuesday, Save the Children reported that displacement camps near Goma have emptied as people seek safety amid the chaos.
“The situation is dire, and we urgently need global action,” they urged, calling for civilian protection and humanitarian access.
Save the Children emphasized the importance of international community involvement in addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis in DRC.
They pointed out that nearly seven million people are displaced, with over 26 million needing urgent humanitarian assistance right now.
The organization stressed the need for a resolution to the crisis, aiming to resume their humanitarian efforts in the region.
