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3mo ago

M23 Rebels Seize Goma as Violence Escalates in Eastern Congo

The conflict, fueled by control over mineral-rich land, has led to thousands of deaths and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Civilians attend a meeting organised by M23 at the Stade de L'Unite, after the town of Goma was taken by M23 rebels, in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, February 6, 2025. REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo
A view shows the remains of a vehicle hit by heavy and light weapons during the fighting in the town that led to the fall of Goma into the hands of the M23 rebels, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, February 5, 2025. REUTERS/Arlette Bashizi/File Photo
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Zawadi Sifa who has been fleeing fighting from camp to camp, shares food with her seven children in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Thursday, Feb. 5, 2025.(AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa)

Overview

  • The M23, a Rwandan-backed rebel group, has captured the city of Goma, displacing thousands and causing widespread destruction.
  • UN officials warn that the conflict could spread to neighboring countries if urgent international action is not taken.
  • Nearly 3,000 people have been killed in recent fighting, with reports of severe human rights abuses, including sexual violence and forced recruitment.
  • The rebels declared a ceasefire but continued their advance, taking more territory and pushing toward South Kivu province.
  • The conflict is partially driven by the region's vast mineral wealth, critical to global technology, raising concerns about the global implications of the violence.