In eastern DR Congo, thousands are fleeing Goma as M23 rebels advance on the city, sparking accusations against Rwanda for supporting the insurgents. The UN has called for troop withdrawals and a ceasefire, as the humanitarian situation worsens with blocked roads and increasing displacement. Peace efforts are underway amid rising tensions and concerns for civilian safety.
A crisis is unfolding in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as thousands evacuate towns due to advancing M23 rebel forces. Explosions and gunfire were reported in Goma, a city of over a million inhabitants, with local media indicating a possible takeover by the rebels at 03:00 local time. Congolese Foreign Minister has accused Rwanda of waging war by supporting the M23 group, which has a history of unrest in the region.
The M23 rebels, who have been gaining control over mineral-rich areas since 2021, are now approaching Goma amidst fierce combat. In response, Kenya has advocated for a ceasefire and announced an emergency summit involving the presidents of DR Congo and Rwanda to discuss peaceful resolutions. During this turmoil, the M23 has urged Congolese soldiers to surrender to prevent further violence.
UN agencies report that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced in North and South Kivu provinces since the beginning of 2025. One displaced resident, Alice Feza, expressed distress over her continued flight across various towns and the uncertain future she faces. She lamented, “We started fleeing a long time ago, and now we have nowhere to go.”
With the situation escalating, the United Nations has identified blocked roads and an unusable airport in Goma, impeding humanitarian assistance. UN Secretary General António Guterres has called for Rwanda to withdraw its forces and for the M23 to halt their advance. This demand follows the death of 13 peacekeeping soldiers in recent encounters with rebels.
The UK and France have also joined calls for an end to hostilities against peacekeepers. Rwanda, while not disputing its support for the M23, has voiced criticism against the Congolese army for violating ceasefire agreements, indicating a complex web of accusations and responsibilities in this conflict. Furthermore, the UN is withdrawing non-essential staff from Goma to prioritize safety and operational needs.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been facing instability due to various militia groups, particularly the M23, which has resurged since 2021. The conflict has roots in historical ethnic tensions and political power struggles, often exacerbated by neighboring countries, notably Rwanda. The city of Goma has become a focal point for this turmoil due to its strategic position and resources. Displacement crises often follow military advances, exacerbating humanitarian situations in the region.
The situation in Goma is critical as M23 rebels close in, prompting mass evacuations and international concern. Accusations of foreign intervention complicate the conflict, while calls for peace and troop withdrawals intensify. As local populations suffer and humanitarian efforts face obstruction, regional leaders and the UN strive to address the escalating violence and restore stability.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
