Tens of thousands flee eastern DRC as M23 rebels advance on Goma, causing explosions and gunfire. Rwanda and DRC exchange accusations over the conflict, while Kenya calls for a ceasefire and an emergency summit. The UN urges for the withdrawal of Rwandan support for the rebels amid rising violence and humanitarian crises, with over 400,000 displaced recently.
In recent developments, tens of thousands are fleeing towns in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as rebel forces advance towards the city of Goma. Explosions and gunfire were reported in the city, which houses over a million residents, prompting fears of an imminent takeover by the M23 rebels who have proclaimed plans to capture Goma by 03:00 local time. In light of these tensions, DRC’s foreign minister accused Rwanda of instigating conflict by supporting the rebels, while Rwanda has countered with accusations against DRC.
Kenya has proposed a ceasefire and convened an emergency summit with the leaders of both DRC and Rwanda to seek resolution. The President of Kenya emphasized the need for regional cooperation to facilitate peace. Meanwhile, the M23 has urged Congolese troops in Goma to surrender to prevent more violence, a situation exacerbated by their recent territorial gains in mineral-rich eastern DRC, where more than 400,000 individuals have been displaced since 2025, according to the UN.
Alice Feza, a displaced woman, expressed her despair as she has continuously relocated from Kiwanja, Rutshuru, and Kibumba, and now finds herself in Goma with no safe refuge. Key routes around Goma are obstructed, and the airport is currently non-operational for evacuations. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for Rwanda to withdraw its support for the M23 and urged the rebels to cease their offensive against Goma following deadly clashes that resulted in the deaths of peacekeeping personnel.
In response, the UK has denounced assaults on peacekeepers while France’s UN delegate echoed calls for Rwanda’s withdrawal. Although Rwanda has not outright denied backing M23, they have shifted blame onto the DRC for the ongoing strife, with Rwanda’s UN representative criticizing the international community’s focus on the M23 rather than on alleged ceasefire violations by Congolese forces. The UN is also withdrawing non-essential staff from Goma, continuing essential operations amid the crisis.
The situation in the DRC has escalated due to the ongoing hostilities involving M23 rebels, who have been involved in conflicts in the eastern region since 2021. These recent confrontations have reignited longstanding tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, with accusations from both sides regarding military support for insurgent groups. The region is affected by its rich mineral resources, which often become focal points for conflict, further complicating the humanitarian crisis that has emerged as mass displacement continues.
The conflict in eastern DRC remains dire, with advancing M23 rebels threatening Goma and resulting in significant displacements. Accusations of international involvement and military support highlight the complexity of the situation as regional leaders seek intervention for a peaceful resolution. Pressures on humanitarian aid due to blocked access and ongoing violence emphasize the urgent need for international attention and sustained efforts to secure peace in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
