Panic spread through Goma, the eastern provincial capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), on Thursday as M23 rebels advanced toward the city.
Congolese military helicopter gunships fired volleys of rockets over the plains, while troops moved to the front line to halt the rebel advance. Goma, home to about 2 million people, remains a key regional hub for security and humanitarian operations.
The M23 rebels, one of approximately 100 armed groups operating in mineral-rich eastern Congo, have intensified their offensive in recent weeks. After capturing towns such as Minova, Katale, and Masisi, the group has inched closer to Goma, heightening fears of further instability. The decades-long conflict in the region has already displaced over 7 million people, creating one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises
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M23, predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsis who broke away from the Congolese army over a decade ago, has claimed its mission is to “liberate” the people of Goma. Lawrence Kanyuka, an M23 spokesperson, stated on X (formerly Twitter) that residents should prepare to welcome their arrival. Meanwhile, schools in Goma were closed, and students were sent home as tensions escalated.
The conflict has drawn accusations from experts and international actors, including the United States and the United Nations, who allege that Rwanda is backing the M23 rebels. Rwanda has repeatedly denied involvement, but the situation has fueled tensions in the already volatile Great Lakes region.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern on Thursday, condemning the renewed offensive by the M23 rebels. “This offensive has a devastating toll on the civilian population and heightens the risk of a broader regional war,” Guterres said in a statement, urging an immediate cessation of hostilities.
As the fighting intensifies, the humanitarian situation in the DRC worsens. Efforts by the Congolese military to regain control and the international community’s call for peace underscore the urgent need for a resolution to this protracted conflict, which continues to devastate millions.
