The White House announced its approval of a two-week humanitarian truce in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst ongoing conflict between government forces and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels.
With over 1.7 million people displaced in North Kivu province alone, the total number of displaced individuals in Congo has reached a record 7.2 million according to United Nations estimates.
The truce, scheduled to begin at midnight local time on Friday and last until July 19, will focus on areas where civilian populations are most affected by the conflict, as stated by the White House.
"The recent escalation of violence in North Kivu has hindered humanitarian efforts to assist hundreds of thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the Kanyabayonga area and has forced over 100,000 people from their homes," said National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson in a statement.
Both the DRC and Rwanda governments have expressed their support for the truce in order to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable populations and create a foundation for reducing tensions in eastern DRC, Watson added.
The United States has urged all parties involved to respect the truce, emphasizing the importance of upholding the ceasefire agreement.
North Kivu has been grappling with the M23 insurgency for over two years in addition to other militia conflicts. Rwanda has been accused by Congo, the United Nations, and Western nations of backing M23 with troops and weapons, although Rwanda denies these allegations.
Rwanda, on the other hand, accuses Congo of supporting and collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a Hutu rebel group responsible for attacks on Tutsis in both countries.
M23 claims to be defending Tutsis against groups like FDLR, which includes Hutu extremists who fled to Congo following the 1994 genocide targeting Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda.
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Overall, this article highlights the significance of the humanitarian truce in eastern Congo amidst the intense fighting between government troops and rebels. It emphasizes the impact of the conflict on civilian populations and the urgent need for peace and stability in the region. As an investor or financial market participant, understanding geopolitical events like this can provide valuable insights into potential risks and opportunities in affected areas. It is essential to stay informed about global developments to make informed decisions that can impact your investments and financial well-being.