Rwanda-Backed M23 Fighters Resume Attacks in DR Congo After Two-Day Pause
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has once again been plunged into turmoil as the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group resumed attacks in the eastern region following a brief two-day pause. The resurgence of violence has heightened tensions in the already fragile region, raising concerns over the humanitarian crisis and regional stability.
According to local sources, fighting resumed in the North Kivu province near the strategic town of Sake, just west of Goma. The M23 rebels, who had previously halted their operations for 48 hours, launched fresh offensives against Congolese armed forces (FARDC), sparking heavy clashes and forcing thousands of civilians to flee their homes. Witnesses reported gunfire and artillery shelling as both sides engaged in intense combat.
The M23 group, named after the March 23 Movement, is a predominantly Tutsi-led militia that emerged from a mutiny within the Congolese army in 2012. It has since been accused of committing war crimes, including mass killings and displacements. The Congolese government has long alleged that Rwanda provides financial and military support to the M23 rebels, a claim that Kigali has repeatedly denied despite mounting evidence from independent reports and UN investigations.
The renewed hostilities come amid international efforts to broker peace in the region. The ceasefire that lasted for two days was part of ongoing negotiations mediated by regional bodies such as the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU). However, the collapse of this temporary truce underscores the deep-rooted challenges in resolving the long-standing conflict.
Humanitarian organizations warn that the intensifying violence could exacerbate the already dire situation in eastern Congo, where millions are in need of urgent aid. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that over 6 million people have been displaced in the DRC due to conflict, with thousands more now seeking refuge as the fighting escalates.
Regional and international actors have urged restraint and called for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further bloodshed. The Congolese government has vowed to continue its military campaign against M23 while appealing for increased international support to defend its sovereignty.
With tensions at a boiling point, the coming days will be critical in determining whether diplomatic interventions can de-escalate the situation or if eastern DRC is set for another prolonged cycle of violence.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0