In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), escalating tensions reached a new height as a UN document revealed the Rwandan army, allegedly backing M23 rebels, deployed a surface-to-air missile (SAM) against a UN observation drone.
This marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict, suggesting a potential shift towards conventional warfare and raising concerns for civilian safety.
The confidential UN report, obtained by AFP, describes an incident where a suspected Rwandan mobile SAM system fired at a UN drone near Goma, though it missed its target.
French intelligence reportedly confirmed the system to be a WZ 551 6×6 IFV mobile SAM, further implicating Rwandan involvement.
This marks the first instance of such sophisticated anti-aircraft weaponry being used by non-state actors in the region, according to MONUSCO peacekeeping mission, and signifies a worrying escalation in the conflict’s nature.
While Rwanda denies supporting the M23 rebels, evidence including weaponry and public statements by rebel spokesperson Willy Ngoma suggest otherwise.
Recent clashes between M23 and the Congolese army have forced thousands of civilians to flee their homes, adding to the already dire humanitarian situation in the region.
The international community has expressed concern about the escalating conflict and called for renewed diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful resolution.
With the use of advanced weaponry and a growing humanitarian crisis, the need for immediate action to de-escalate the situation and protect civilians becomes ever more critical.
