Tens of thousands are fleeing Goma, DR Congo, as M23 rebels advance. Local media report explosions and gunfire, while the M23 plans to take control soon. The conflict has led to accusations against Rwanda and calls for a ceasefire from Kenya. Displacement has surged, with significant humanitarian concerns expressed by the UN.
In the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), thousands of individuals are evacuating from eastern towns as M23 rebel forces approach the city of Goma. Explosions and gunfire were reported in Goma, which houses over a million inhabitants, according to local media. A spokesman for the M23 rebel group announced plans to capture the city by 03:00 local time.
As tensions rise, DR Congo’s foreign minister has accused Rwanda of waging war by sending troops across the border to assist the M23 rebels. In contrast, Rwanda claims that Kinshasa supports local militias seeking to topple the Rwandan government. Kenya has intervened by advocating for a ceasefire and organizing an emergency summit involving the presidents of DR Congo and Rwanda.
Amidst the chaos, the M23 rebels have urged Congolese soldiers in Goma to surrender to prevent further violence. This rebel group has significantly expanded its territory over the past two years, advancing swiftly toward Goma. The United Nations reported that more than 400,000 individuals have been displaced from North and South Kivu provinces near Rwanda since the beginning of 2025.
Alice Feza, a displaced individual, expressed distress over her situation, having fled various locations without assurance of safety. The UN revealed that main access routes to Goma are obstructed and that the airport is no longer viable for rescue or humanitarian activities. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for Rwanda to withdraw its troops and for M23 to cease its offensive actions targeting Goma.
Tragically, thirteen peacekeepers were killed in confrontations with M23 rebels, prompting the United Kingdom to demand a halt to attacks on peacekeeping forces. France echoed these concerns, urging Rwanda to withdraw its support. Both DR Congo and the UN accuse Rwanda of backing the M23 group, a claim that Rwandan representatives have subtly acknowledged while attributing blame to DR Congo’s army for igniting the conflict.
In response to the escalating violence, the UN has announced plans to evacuate non-essential personnel from Goma while maintaining critical operations in the region.
The situation in eastern DR Congo has been tense due to the activities of the M23 rebels, a group that has gained control of substantial territories since 2021. The conflict has led to significant displacement, with over 400,000 people fleeing violence in the North and South Kivu provinces. Regional and international responses are developing, with Kenya advocating for dialogue and safety, while the accusations against Rwanda for supporting the M23 rebels complicate the situation. The engagement of other nations, particularly through emergency summits, reflects a coordinated effort to address regional instability. The complex history between DR Congo and its neighboring states amplifies the risks of escalation, affecting humanitarian conditions and international peace efforts.
The conflict surrounding Goma highlights a dire humanitarian crisis as thousands flee amidst fierce combat between M23 rebels and Congolese troops. Accusations of foreign intervention, particularly involving Rwanda, exacerbate tensions. With regional leaders convening to seek a resolution, international calls for a ceasefire and the protection of peacekeepers underline the urgent need for a diplomatic approach to quell violence and support displaced populations.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
