The conflict in eastern Congo worsens as M23 rebels claim control of Goma, deepening violence and humanitarian challenges.
Rebels Declare Victory in Goma
The M23 rebels announced that they have seized control of Goma, a major city in eastern Congo. Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, which includes M23, stated, “We have captured Goma and instructed soldiers to surrender by 3 p.m. local time.” Independent sources, however, have yet to confirm the rebels’ claims.
Local residents described chaotic scenes with ongoing gunfire and extensive looting. By mid-morning, witnesses saw M23 fighters in the city, alongside Congolese soldiers laying down their weapons and raising white flags. Fighting continued in the city center, prolonging the instability and fear.
Rising Tensions at the Border
As the rebels advanced on Goma, reportedly with support from Rwanda, tensions along the border intensified. By Sunday evening, the M23 reached Munigi, a suburb located only nine kilometers from Goma’s center. Nangaa revealed that some Congolese soldiers were permitted to evacuate by boat toward Bukavu after negotiations.
Meanwhile, skirmishes erupted between Rwandan and Congolese troops along their shared border near Goma. These clashes further aggravated an already volatile situation, drawing concern from neighboring nations and international observers.
UN Appeals for Ceasefire and Aid Access
On Sunday, the United Nations Security Council convened to address the crisis. The Council demanded an immediate halt to M23’s offensive and called for the withdrawal of external forces, including Rwanda. Bintou Keita, head of the UN mission in Congo, reported, “Blocked roads and an inaccessible airport have cut off evacuations and humanitarian aid deliveries.”
While the United States, France, and the United Kingdom condemned Rwanda’s alleged involvement, Rwanda denied the accusations. Rwandan UN Ambassador Ernest Rwamucyo criticized Congo’s leadership, blaming their lack of commitment to peace for the escalating violence.
Since the 1994 Rwandan genocide, eastern Congo has endured cycles of instability. The recent M23 offensive has displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians, worsening an already dire humanitarian crisis. The World Food Program announced a temporary halt to its aid operations due to security concerns.
The unfolding crisis in eastern Congo highlights the urgent need for global intervention to address violence and restore stability.