As the international community responds—calling for ceasefires and condemning support for the rebels—the repercussions of this ongoing conflict continue to be felt deeply by the vulnerable civilian population in the DRC.
Rebels Clash with Peacekeepers in DR Congo, Leaving 13 Dead
Rebels Clash with Peacekeepers in DR Congo, Leaving 13 Dead
Thirteen peacekeepers have been killed in escalating violence involving the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a tragic turn of events in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), 13 international peacekeepers lost their lives during violent confrontations with the M23 rebel group in the eastern city of Goma. The South African military reported that nine of their soldiers were among the deceased, in addition to three Malawian and one Uruguayan soldier. The fighting has prompted the United Nations to evacuate non-essential personnel from Goma, a city of over a million inhabitants. Amidst growing violence, French President Emmanuel Macron has engaged with leaders from both DR Congo and Rwanda, urging an urgent end to hostilities. The situation escalated drastically this year, leading to over 400,000 people being displaced, as the rebels have captured significant territories, raising fears of a worsening humanitarian crisis. Human Rights Watch has highlighted the peril faced by civilians, while the UN condemned both the M23 and the Congolese army for committing serious abuses.
