Tens of thousands are fleeing Goma, DR Congo, as M23 rebels advance. Explosions and gunfire were reported, with the group threatening to seize the city. Accusations of Rwandan military support have raised tensions, prompting calls for ceasefire and emergency talks. The UN has reported significant displacement, highlighting a growing humanitarian crisis as violence escalates.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a substantial exodus is occurring as rebel forces advance towards the city of Goma. Reports indicate that gunshots and explosions were detected in the city, which has a population exceeding one million. The M23 rebel group has announced plans to take control of Goma, escalating fears among residents.
The situation has been exacerbated by accusations from the DRC’s foreign minister, who claims that Rwanda has declared war by providing support to the M23 rebels. Rwanda, however, contends that the DRC backs militias intent on destabilizing its government.
In response to the escalating conflict, Kenyan President William Ruto has called for a ceasefire and an emergency summit involving the DRC and Rwandan presidents. On the ground, M23 has urged Congolese troops in Goma to surrender to prevent further violence.
The M23 group has gained significant territory in eastern DRC since 2021 and is rapidly approaching Goma as combat intensifies. The United Nations reports that since early 2025, over 400,000 individuals have been displaced in the North and South Kivu provinces. Many, like displaced resident Alice Feza, express despair over their uncertain futures amid ongoing violence and displacement.
Access to Goma is becoming increasingly restricted as roads are blocked and the airport is no longer operational for evacuations. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called upon Rwanda to withdraw its troops and for the M23 to cease hostilities and retreat from occupied areas.
The security situation has worsened following the deaths of 13 peacekeeping soldiers in confrontations with M23 rebels. The United Kingdom and France have echoed calls for the protection of peacekeepers amid this unrest, condemning the violence attributed to the M23 and its alleged support from Rwanda.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo has historical roots, deeply intertwined with issues of territorial control, ethnic divisions, and regional dynamics involving neighboring countries. The M23 rebel group, composed largely of individuals from the Tutsi ethnic group, emerged in 2012 amid grievances concerning political representation and economic marginalization. Tensions between the DRC and Rwanda have escalated over accusations of cross-border military support, which has perpetuated instability within the DRC. The humanitarian impact is severe, with UN data indicating hundreds of thousands displaced due to violence, underscoring the urgent need for diplomatic intervention and a sustained resolution to restore peace and security in the region.
In conclusion, the situation in Goma remains critical as thousands flee amid the encroachment of M23 rebel forces. Accusations between the DRC and Rwanda exacerbate regional tensions, calling for immediate diplomatic attention. The humanitarian consequences are dire, necessitating urgent action from international entities to safeguard the affected populations and to secure a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
