DR Congo Conflict: Thousands Displaced as M23 Rebels Approach Goma
Tens of thousands are fleeing Goma in eastern DRC as M23 rebels advance towards the city, prompting allegations of Rwandan military support for the rebels and calls for intervention from regional leaders. UN officials report significant displacement and casualties among peacekeeping forces, highlighting the urgent need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), rising tensions have led to a mass exodus of residents fleeing towards the city of Goma as rebel forces, specifically the M23 group, advance. Gunshots and explosions were reported late on Sunday, alarming the local population of over one million. A spokesperson for M23 indicated plans to take control of Goma shortly after midnight local time.
Tensions escalated further when the DRC’s foreign minister accused Rwanda of declaring war by backing M23 with military support. In contrast, Rwanda contends that the DRC is aiding anti-Kigali militias. Meanwhile, Kenya has called for a ceasefire and is facilitating a regional summit involving the presidents of both nations to discuss the conflict.
The M23 rebels have urged Congolese soldiers to surrender to prevent bloodshed, as they have gained substantial territory in eastern DRC since 2021. The United Nations (UN) refugee agency reports that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced in North and South Kivu provinces since early 2025 due to resurgence in violence.
A displaced woman, Alice Feza, lamented her dire situation, explaining, “People are fleeing everywhere, and we don’t know where to go anymore.” Key access roads around Goma are blocked, and the airport is rendered unusable for evacuations and humanitarian efforts, according to UN officials.
In response to the escalating conflict, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Rwanda to withdraw its forces from the DRC and called for the M23 rebels to halt their advancement. The UN has reported the tragic loss of thirteen peacekeeping soldiers in clashes with the rebels. Both the DRC and the UN maintain that Rwanda is providing support to the M23 group.
Rwanda’s UN representative, Ernest Rwamucyo, expressed disappointment that the international community focuses on condemning M23 rather than addressing violations committed by the Congolese army. As a safety measure, the UN announced it would evacuate non-essential personnel from Goma while maintaining critical operations in the region.
The current unrest in the eastern DRC stems from long-standing tensions between the M23 rebel group and the Congolese government, exacerbated by perceived external support from neighboring Rwanda. The DRC has accused Rwanda of direct military intervention, while Rwanda alleges that the DRC is backing insurgent groups attempting to destabilize its government. This turmoil has led to significant displacement and humanitarian crises in the region, drawing attention from international leaders and organizations, including the UN and African nations.
The situation in eastern DRC remains critical as M23 rebels continue their advance towards Goma, prompting widespread displacement and international concern. Calls for a ceasefire and dialogue have emerged amidst escalating violence. The backdrop of Rwandan involvement complicates the crisis, necessitating urgent diplomatic interventions to restore peace and stability to the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
