M23 rebels claim to have seized Goma, worsening violence and displacement in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rebels Announce Control Over Goma

M23 rebels declared they have taken control of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo. Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, stated, “We have captured Goma and demanded the surrender of soldiers by 3 p.m. local time.” These claims remain unconfirmed by independent sources.

Eyewitnesses reported ongoing gunfire and looting throughout the city. By midday, M23 fighters were seen in Goma alongside Congolese soldiers abandoning their weapons under white flags. Fighting continued in parts of the city center despite these developments.

Rising Border Tensions

In recent days, M23 forces, reportedly supported by Rwanda, advanced toward Goma, reaching Munigi, a nearby suburb, by Sunday evening. Negotiations reportedly allowed some Congolese soldiers to leave Goma by boat toward Bukavu.

Meanwhile, reports from the UN revealed gunfire exchanges between Rwandan and Congolese troops along the border near Goma. These clashes have further intensified regional tensions.

UN Security Council Demands Immediate Withdrawal

The UN Security Council convened on Sunday to address the crisis. They called for an immediate halt to M23’s offensive and demanded the withdrawal of alleged Rwandan support. “The roads are blocked, and the airport is no longer accessible for evacuations or aid delivery,” said Bintou Keita, the UN’s Congo mission head.

The United States, France, and the United Kingdom condemned Rwanda’s suspected involvement. Rwanda denied the allegations, with its UN Ambassador Ernest Rwamucyo blaming Congo’s leadership for failing to prioritize peace efforts.

Humanitarian Impact Worsens

Since the 1994 Rwandan genocide, eastern Congo has suffered from ongoing instability. M23, a Tutsi-led militia, is the latest in a string of armed groups contributing to regional unrest. Their January 23 offensive has displaced hundreds of thousands, further straining humanitarian efforts. Due to the violence, the World Food Programme has paused its emergency operations in the area.

The growing violence and displacement underscore the urgent need for international intervention to stabilize the region and address the unfolding crisis.

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