Congo clashes escalate humanitarian crisis

KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- The ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo has created difficulties in distributing aid, escalating a deteriorating humanitarian crisis.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said Tuesday the violent clashes between the DR Congo government and the rebel National Congress for the Defense of the People, led by Laurent Nkunda, has raised concerns over a growing humanitarian situation in the North Kivu region, the ICRC reported.

While violence has become sporadic, the ICRC says its ability to reach and assist the victims in North Kivu remains problematic. Officials say the violent confrontations have forced thousands to flee the region.

"Violations of international humanitarian law continue to be a cause for concern, as is the plight of the 250,000 displaced persons in the Kivus who remain cut off from their homes and livelihoods," the release said.

The violence has made humanitarian aid operations difficult, but the ICRC says it has made progress on water sanitation operations, emergency medical surgeries and operations to restoring family links. Officials say ICRC aid workers also have been allowed to treat people being held in detention facilities.