On Friday, a devastating mortar attack hit two internally displaced people’s (IDP) camps near Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, killing at least 16 people and injuring 30 others. The attack on Lac Vert and Mugunga IDP camps has sparked a heated exchange of accusations between the Rwandan government and the US State Department.

The US State Department has pointed to the Rwandan army and the M23 rebel group as responsible for the deadly bombing. However, the Rwandan government has vehemently denied any involvement in the attack, calling the accusations “unjustified” and “without any investigation”.

In a statement, the Rwandan government asserted, “Rwanda will not shoulder responsibility for the bombing of the IDP camps around Goma, or the security and governance failures of the [DR Congo’s] government.” The government also denied long-standing claims that it backs the M23 rebel group.

The Congolese army and the M23 rebel group have traded blame for the attack, with each side accusing the other of responsibility. DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi cut short a visit to Europe following the attacks, returning home to address the crisis.

The situation remains tense, with the Rwandan government’s denial of responsibility only adding to the complexity of the situation. As the investigation into the attack continues, it is essential to uncover the truth behind this tragic event and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

The IDP camps in question house thousands of people displaced by conflict and violence in the region. The attack has only added to the suffering of these vulnerable individuals, highlighting the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and greater support for those affected.

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