Chaos erupted in Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, on Monday as M23 rebels claimed to have captured the city, prompting a mass exodus of civilians and a diplomatic crisis with neighboring Rwanda.
Heavy fighting erupted throughout the city, forcing residents to flee their homes. Gunfire could be heard across the city, and reports emerged of looting and widespread panic.
The Congolese government confirmed the presence of M23 rebels within the city limits but stopped short of acknowledging full control.
In response to the M23 advance, the Congolese government severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing the neighboring country of directly supporting the rebel group. Rwanda denies these accusations.
Thirteen peacekeepers, including soldiers from South Africa, Malawi, and Uruguay, have been killed in the fighting, highlighting the escalating violence and the dangers faced by UN personnel.
The M23’s advance marks a significant escalation in the long-running conflict in eastern Congo, raising serious concerns about regional stability and the potential for further violence. The humanitarian crisis in the region is already dire, with millions of people displaced and the situation deteriorating rapidly.
This incident underscores the urgent need for a de-escalation of the conflict and a return to diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful and sustainable solution to the crisis in eastern Congo.