Tens of thousands are fleeing Goma as M23 rebels advance on the city. The DRC accuses Rwanda of military support to the rebels, which Rwanda denies. The UN and Kenya are calling for ceasefire negotiations while the humanitarian crisis deepens with significant displacement and blocked access to crucial services.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), tens of thousands of individuals are evacuating as M23 rebel forces approach Goma, a critical city housing over a million people. Explosions and gunfire were reported in the city late Sunday. The M23 group has announced its intention to capture Goma shortly after midnight local time, prompting fears of a humanitarian crisis due to ongoing violence in the region.
Accusations have surfaced from the DRC’s foreign minister, claiming that Rwanda has declared war by deploying troops to assist M23 rebels, amidst Rwanda’s allegations against the DRC of backing insurgents aiming for regime change in Kigali. Kenya is advocating for a ceasefire and has arranged an emergency regional summit for leaders from both countries in the coming days.
As the situation intensifies, M23 rebels have urged Congolese troops in Goma to capitulate to prevent further violence. This militant group has progressively gained territory in eastern DRC since 2021 and has escalated its offensive against Goma, adding to the region’s instability.
The United Nations reports that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced in North and South Kivu provinces since January 2025. Displaced residents, like Alice Feza, express desperation as they flee from multiple locations, stating, “People are fleeing everywhere, and we do not know where to go anymore.”
Key access routes to Goma are now obstructed, and the airport has ceased operations related to evacuations and humanitarian aid, according to the UN. Secretary-General António Guterres has issued urgent calls for Rwanda to withdraw its forces and for M23 to halt its advance toward Goma, following incidents resulting in fatalities among peacekeeping forces.
With escalating tensions, the UK and France have advocated for protecting peacekeepers and reiterated calls for a withdrawal of Rwandan troops. Both the DRC and the UN accuse the M23 of receiving Rwandan support, which Rwanda’s leadership has not denied, instead blaming the DRC for the exacerbating conflict. The UN also announced the withdrawal of non-essential personnel from Goma, while essential operations continue in the DRC.
The conflict in eastern DRC has been marked by the rise of the M23 rebel group, which has gained significant territory in the region. The dynamics of the conflict are further complicated by historical tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, with each country accusing the other of supporting rebel factions. The city of Goma is strategically significant, being located near the border and having a large population. Recent escalations have prompted international concern and calls for urgent diplomatic intervention to stabilize the situation and address the humanitarian crisis. The ongoing violence and military actions are directly impacting civilians, leading to mass displacement and a dire humanitarian situation.
The ongoing conflict surrounding Goma in the DRC has led to significant displacement and heightened tensions in the region. As M23 rebels close in on the city, international calls for ceasefire and diplomatic intervention persist. The humanitarian situation worsens with thousands fleeing and essential services being disrupted. Stakeholders, including the UN and neighboring nations, must navigate this complex crisis to support peace and stability in the area.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
