Congo’s volatile region east of the border is spiraling into chaos as the M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, push closer to Goma. The city, home to 2 million people, has seen panic among its citizens as the rebels and Congolese army battle for control. Bombs have been heard in Goma’s outskirts, with hundreds of civilians needing urgent care at the main hospital.
The M23 group, which controls large parts of the town near their front lines, has advanced significantly, closing in on the regional capital. UN chief António Guterres has condemned the offensive as a potential catalyst for broader regional conflict, urging all parties to respect international humanitarian law.
Thousands have fled Sake, a nearby town where the rebels control much of the area, leaving behind hundreds of casualties and thousands displaced in just two weeks. Many are attempting dangerous crossings into neighboring countries, with lives hanging in the balance.
Rwanda’s involvement has been widely criticized by Congolese authorities, though evidence linking its troops to the conflict remains murky. The U.S., Rwanda, and the United Kingdom have issued travel advisories for Goma residents due to ongoing violence on the roads.
Guterres called on the international community to spare no one in bearing witness to this humanitarian disaster, warning that further instability could follow. As the situation remains dire, preparedness among aid groups is critical to addressing the flood of displaced people.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/congo-m23-rebels-goma-1942ee699a6640795bf5904c11b188e3