UN Security Council requests withdrawal of M23 rebels in DR Congo

An escort of Kenyan and Congolese military personnel stands guard at the airport in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, as former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta lands on Nov 15, 2022. (ALEXIS HUGUET / AFP)

UNITED NATIONS – The UN Security Council on Tuesday demanded immediate cessation of hostilities and of any further advances by the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group and its withdrawal from all occupied areas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The UN Security Council called on the international community to increase support to the DR Congo govt in tackling the humanitarian crisis

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."

ALSO READ: Museveni: E. Africa working to restore order in eastern DRC

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.

READ MORE: Intense fighting resumes between army, M23 in DR Congo

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."