**
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been plagued by decades of conflict, fueled by ethnic tensions stemming from the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Now, amid rising violence near Goma, a major city in eastern DR Congo, armed groups like the M23 continue to test the boundaries of stability.
With Goma under intense attack by the M23, international aid agencies warn of severe humanitarian crisis. The rebels control much of the city, while the DRC government retains key positions. Thousands of Congolese have been killed in recent fighting, with hospitals overwhelmed and civilians caught in the crossfire.
The M23, led by Tutsi fighters, gained significant territory in 2012 before facing defeat at the hands of DR Congo’s army and UN peacekeepers. They later agreed to integrate into the army in exchange for promises of Tutsi protection, though these assurances were breached last year when they turned to arms again.
Rwanda has been implicated in supplying weapons and logistical support to the M23, despite denials from DRC authorities and the US and France. Rwanda claims the conflict is an opportunity to exploit DR Congo’s mineral wealth but faces growing international criticism for its involvement.
UN peacekeepers, with their Force Intervention Brigade carrying out decisive operations against the M23 in 2013, have struggled to achieve their mandate. Meanwhile, local forces from South Africa and Malawi are also being deployed to quell the rebellion.
The situation remains volatile, with ongoing international efforts to stabilize eastern DR Congo and protect its people.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgly1yrd9j3o