Overview

• The Democratic Republic of Congo and M23 rebels issued a joint statement committing to an immediate cessation of hostilities as they work toward a permanent truce.
• The agreement follows peace talks mediated by Qatar, marking the first joint ceasefire pledge between the two parties after numerous failed unilateral truces since 2021.
• M23's recent territorial advances, including the capture of Goma and Bukavu, have escalated the conflict, which has displaced over seven million people and killed thousands.
• Renewed fighting in Walikale highlights the fragility of the ceasefire, despite M23's prior withdrawal from the area as a goodwill gesture.
• Disagreements over confidence-building measures, such as prisoner releases, remain unresolved, with further negotiations expected in Doha in the coming weeks.