Thousands of people are fleeing Goma, DRC, as M23 rebels draw closer to the city amidst escalating violence. The DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting the rebels, while Rwanda blames DRC for the crisis. UN leaders call for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces, as Goma’s transportation routes become blocked and civilians endure dire conditions.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), thousands of individuals are fleeing from their homes as M23 rebel forces advance towards the city of Goma, a major urban center housing over a million people. Reports indicate the sound of gunfire and explosions in the city, raising concerns about impending conflict. The spokesperson for the M23 announced their intention to take control of Goma at 03:00 local time.
Tensions have escalated, with DR Congo’s Foreign Minister accusing Rwanda of having declared war by deploying troops to support the M23. In contrast, Rwanda claims that the DRC is backing insurgent groups that threaten its government. In response, Kenya has called for an immediate ceasefire and facilitated an emergency summit with the leaders of DR Congo and Rwanda to address the crisis.
On the ground, M23 rebels have urged Congolese soldiers in Goma to surrender to prevent bloodshed. The group has been extending its control over swathes of eastern DRC since 2021 and has made significant advances recently amidst heightened fighting. The United Nations reports that since 2025, over 400,000 individuals have been displaced in the provinces of North and South Kivu.
Many displaced persons are expressing despair over their situation. Alice Feza, a displaced woman, reported her struggles, stating, “People are fleeing everywhere, and we do not know where to go anymore.” Goma’s key transportation routes are obstructed, and the city’s airport has become unusable for evacuations or humanitarian efforts.
In a plea for de-escalation, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has demanded that Rwanda withdraw its forces from DRC and that the M23 cease its offensive towards Goma. Following violent clashes that resulted in the deaths of 13 peacekeeping soldiers, Guterres reiterated the call for both sides to halt hostilities.
The UK and France have echoed calls for peace, with France’s UN envoy emphasizing the need for Rwanda’s withdrawal. There is broad consensus that Rwanda has been backing the M23, although Rwandan officials contend that the DRC army has breached ceasefire agreements. As tensions mount, the UN has begun pulling non-essential personnel from Goma.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, marked by struggles for control over resource-rich territories and ethnic tensions. The M23 rebel group, which gained prominence in the early 2010s, has resurfaced, exacerbating unrest in the eastern provinces. This current crisis highlights the complex interplay between regional politics, particularly involving Rwanda, and the ongoing humanitarian disaster resulting from the violence. The city of Goma is strategically significant due to its proximity to the Rwandan border and its role as a hub for humanitarian efforts. As armed conflicts frequently displace populations and threaten stability, international and regional actors are pressured to broker a resolution. The situation remains precarious, exacerbated by allegations of foreign involvement and historical animosities.
In summary, the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo intensifies with the advance of M23 rebels towards Goma, prompting a mass exodus of civilians. With accusations of foreign interference roiling tensions, regional leaders are urged to seek a peaceful resolution. The humanitarian crisis is deepening, necessitating immediate attention from international bodies to prevent further suffering. The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
