At least 12 people, including children, have tragically lost their lives in twin bomb blasts that struck two camps for displaced individuals in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The attacks occurred on Friday and targeted the Lac Vert and Mugunga camps, located near the city of Goma in North Kivu province.

According to government officials, the United Nations, and an aid group, the explosions have also left at least 20 individuals injured. The UN has condemned the attacks, deeming them a "flagrant violation of human rights and international humanitarian law" and possibly constituting a war crime.

Eyewitnesses from one of the camps reported that many of the victims were sleeping in their tents when the bombings occurred. The Congolese military, along with the United States, have accused the military in neighboring Rwanda and the M23 rebel group of being responsible for the attacks. However, Rwanda has vehemently denied these accusations, labeling them as "ridiculous."

Government spokesperson Yolande Makolo instead blamed the assault on militias supported by the Congolese military. Lieutenant-Colonel Guillaume Njike Kaiko, a spokesperson for the DRC's army, stated that the attacks were retaliation for previous strikes by the DRC on Rwandan army positions, resulting in the destruction of arms and ammunition.

The intensifying conflict in eastern DRC has led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians, who have been forced to flee neighboring towns towards Goma. However, Goma itself remains largely isolated from the country's interior.

Amidst the chaos, humanitarian organizations on the ground continue to provide crucial aid and support. Save The Children, present during the attacks, reported dozens of injuries, particularly among women and children. The final death toll remains unclear. The organization's country director in the DRC, Greg Ramm, emphasized the importance of protecting civilians, especially those living in displacement camps, and called for an end to the use of explosive weapons near populated areas.

The ongoing conflict in the region has strained resources and hindered humanitarian efforts. Doctors Without Borders (MSF), the DRC branch of the medical charity, reported having to suspend the distribution of essential items and medical consultations due to rising insecurity.

Amidst mounting tensions, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the issue during a joint news conference with DRC President Tshisekedi in Paris, urging Rwanda to cease its support for the M23 rebels.

The DRC has witnessed years of violence, resulting in the loss of approximately six million lives since 1996 and displacing around seven million people. The need for a resolution to the conflict and the protection of civilians is paramount in ensuring the stability and well-being of the region.