UN aid agencies have raised alarms about a humanitarian disaster in Goma, with hospitals overwhelmed and bodies scattered in the streets. Thousands are fleeing multiple conflict zones, while M23 rebels continue their offensive to seize control of the city. The UNHCR reports widespread looting of food and medical supplies as the violence escalates. Hospitals are filled with gunshot victims, with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) reporting more than 100 casualties in just 24 hours. The use of heavy artillery in populated areas is inflicting devastating injuries, especially among children.
Anger over the M23 offensive has led to protests in Kinshasa, where demonstrators set parts of the French embassy on fire. Similar attacks targeted embassies from Rwanda, Uganda, Belgium, and the US, leading to police clashing with protesters. The death toll in Goma has risen to at least 25, and South Africa’s peacekeeping forces have suffered casualties, including the deaths of four soldiers. Both South Africa and the African Union are calling for urgent peace talks and a ceasefire.
With Goma cut off from electricity and water, the Congolese government is striving to restore essential services while seeking political and diplomatic solutions. The UN Security Council has been called upon to take tougher action against Rwanda, which is accused of supporting the M23 rebels. Despite Rwanda’s denial, the UN peacekeeping chief has confirmed its troops’ involvement in the conflict.
Source: Swifteradio.com
