M23 rebels have tightened their grip on Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The city, home to over 1.3 million people, was captured by the rebels after being abandoned by Congolese forces.
The rebel group, backed by about 4,000 troops from Rwanda, has been making gains in the region’s minerals-rich areas. Critics say that these groups are vying for control of trillions of dollars worth of minerals essential for much of the world’s technology.
As M23 takes hold, international leaders are sounding the alarm. The UN Secretary-General and French President Emmanuel Macron have called for an immediate ceasefire, a withdrawal by the rebels, and the safe return of Congolese authorities to Bukavu.
The DRC is grappling with a security crisis, with over 100 armed groups vying for control. M23’s push has sparked regional concerns, with diplomats urging caution to avoid further escalation.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2025/2/17/m23-rebels-tighten-their-grip-on-major-city-in-eastern-drc