The UN Security Council on Wednesday demanded the immediate withdrawal of the armed group known as the 23 March Movement (M23) from eastern Congolese territories and the cessation of any further advances.
In a press statement, the 15-member council strongly condemned the resumption of attacks by the M23 in North Kivu and the advances of the M23 towards the city of Goma and in other areas in the DRC, blaming the rebels for “worsening security and stability in the region and exacerbating the current humanitarian situation.”
The council members expressed deep concern regarding the increasing number of displaced persons and refugees and called on all parties, in particular the M23, to allow safe, timely and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need and to refrain from any violence against civilians.
They also called on the international community to increase support to the DRC government in tackling the humanitarian crisis.
In the statement, the council members reiterated their support for regional efforts “to rebuild trust, resolve differences through dialogue and find sustainable peace and security.”
CU/as/APA