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South Africa has issued a stern warning in response to attacks on its peacekeeping forces by Rwandan-backed rebels, stating that any further aggression would be considered a "declaration of war". Tensions in the region have escalated following a recent offensive by the M23 militia in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Thirteen South African soldiers, part of a regional peacekeeping force, have lost their lives since the M23 rebels launched an assault on Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in eastern DRC. Reports indicate that the rebels have taken control of the city and have now advanced into South Kivu province, moving towards the city of Bukavu.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has squarely blamed M23 and Rwanda’s national army for the deaths, referring to the latter as a "militia". Defense Minister Angie Motshekga revealed that the South African casualties were the result of friendly fire from Rwandan soldiers. President Ramaphosa has cautioned Rwanda that any further attacks will be met with a military response to defend South African troops.
The recent clashes in Goma have resulted in over 100 fatalities and 1.5 million displaced individuals, many of whom had sought refuge in the city from previous conflicts in the region. The eastern part of DRC, known for its mineral wealth, has been a hotspot for conflict for years, with various armed groups vying for control over resources essential for electronics manufacturing.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to address the escalating crisis, with leaders of the East African Community convening an emergency summit to call for an immediate cessation of hostilities. DRC President Félix Tshisekedi highlighted the presence of Rwandan troops on Congolese soil as a destabilizing factor with unpredictable consequences.
The deaths of South African peacekeepers have sparked outrage in the country, with calls from opposition parties for a withdrawal of troops amid concerns of inadequate equipment and preparedness. Author Jason Stearns, in his book "The War That Doesn’t Say Its Name: The Unending Conflict in the Congo", pointed to Rwanda’s increasing assertiveness in the region, buoyed by a lack of international rebuke.
The strained relationship between South Africa and Rwanda, marred by past incidents including alleged assassinations on South African soil, has further complicated the situation. Rwandan President Paul Kagame has refuted accusations from President Ramaphosa, denouncing them as distortions and lies. He cautioned South Africa against assuming a mediator role and hinted at potential confrontation if tensions persist.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC underscores the need for a swift resolution to prevent further loss of life and regional instability. The international community is closely monitoring developments in the region, with hopes for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
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