DR Congo army launches airstrikes on M23 rebel positions amid fading peace prospects

ISTANBUL

The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) on Sunday launched airstrikes on the rebel positions in Masisi and Walikale territories in the eastern province of North Kivu, according to UN radio.

The strikes were reported in the villages of Mukwengwa, Bibwe, Nyarushamba, Nyenge, and Hembe in Masisi, and also targeted rebel positions in Peti, Walikale territory, following two days of intense clashes between rebels and the pro-government Wazalendo militia, Radio Okapi said.

According to the UN radio, several sources confirmed that rebels carried out reprisals in Mukwengwa and Nyabikeri villages, resulting in multiple deaths and homes being set on fire.

Eastern Congo has been plagued by violence for decades.

The resurgence of the M23 rebel group in 2021, allegedly supported by Rwanda, exacerbated the conflict. The group controls significant territory, including the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu, which it seized earlier this year.

In July, Congo and a coalition of rebel groups that includes the M23 (AFC/M23) signed a ceasefire deal in Doha dubbed the Declaration of Principles.

But fighting in eastern Congo continues amid counter accusations of violating the ceasefire.