The Democratic Republic of Congo faces a humanitarian crisis as M23 rebels advance toward Goma, displacing over 400,000 individuals amid escalating violence. Tensions between Rwanda and DR Congo intensify as government officials accuse Rwanda of supporting rebel forces. Calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic efforts highlight the urgent need for regional collaboration to address the conflict.
Tens of thousands of people are fleeing from the eastern towns of the Democratic Republic of Congo as M23 rebel forces approach the city of Goma, which has a population exceeding one million. Reports from the region indicate explosions and gunfire were heard late Sunday in Goma. A spokesperson for the M23 rebels stated that they plan to take control of the city at 03:00 local time (01:00 GMT).
The situation escalated when DR Congo’s foreign minister accused Rwanda of declaring war by sending troops to support the M23 rebels. In response, Rwanda claimed that Kinshasa was backing militias seeking regime change in Rwanda. Kenya has called for a ceasefire, and an emergency regional summit will be held with the presidents of DR Congo and Rwanda scheduled to attend.
Kenyan President William Ruto emphasized the necessity for regional leaders to work towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict. On the ground, the M23 rebels have urged Congolese troops in Goma to surrender to prevent further violence. Since 2021, the M23 group has expanded its territory in the mineral-rich eastern DR Congo and has recently intensified its advance on Goma amidst persistent fighting.
According to the UN’s refugee agency, over 400,000 individuals have been displaced in North and South Kivu provinces since the onset of 2025. One displaced woman, Alice Feza, expressed her despair, stating, “People are fleeing everywhere, and we don’t know where to go anymore, because we started fleeing a long time ago.”
The UN reported that critical access roads surrounding Goma are blocked, and the city’s airport is no longer viable for evacuation or humanitarian efforts. UN Secretary General António Guterres has called for Rwanda to withdraw its troops and for the M23 to halt its advance toward Goma, emphasizing an immediate cessation of hostilities.
After 13 soldiers in peacekeeping operations were killed during clashes with rebels, the UK called for the cessation of attacks on peacekeepers. Furthermore, France’s UN representative reiterated the need for Rwanda to pull back its forces. Both DR Congo and the UN assert that the M23 is supported by Rwanda, which has acknowledged this support but points to the Congolese army’s violations of ceasefires as a provocation.
The UN indicated it would withdraw all non-essential staff from Goma, although essential operations would continue in DR Congo. The growing conflict has added pressure to an already critical humanitarian situation in the region, highlighting the urgent need for international intervention and dialogue.
The political situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been fragile due to ongoing conflicts, particularly in the East where various armed groups, including the M23 rebels, have challenged government authority. The region is largely affected by external interference, notably from Rwanda, leading to heightened tensions and accusations between the two nations. The M23 rebels have gained substantial territory since their resurgence, threatening major urban centers like Goma. Goma, situated near the Rwandan border, faces dire humanitarian crises due to the influx of displaced populations amid violent conflicts. Organizations such as the United Nations have continually monitored the situation, advocating for peaceful resolutions and humanitarian aid. The complexity of the situation is compounded by the involvement of international players and the delicate balance of power in the region, making it crucial for regional cooperation to achieve stability.
The current conflict surrounding Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo escalates with tens of thousands of individuals fleeing as M23 rebel forces advance. Calls for ceasefire and diplomatic negotiations are urgent as regional leaders aim to mitigate violence. The involvement of Rwanda remains contentious, with allegations of troop support for M23, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis impacting over 400,000 displaced individuals after recent escalations. International attention and coordination are essential to restore peace and stability in the area, preventing further casualties and displacement.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
