Rwanda-Backed M23 Rebels Seize Goma, Escalating DR Congo Conflict

The capture of Goma by M23 rebels has displaced 500,000 people, claimed 700 lives, and raised fears of regional destabilization and humanitarian crises.

The Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group has captured Goma, DR Congo's largest eastern city, and is advancing further into South Kivu province toward Bukavu.
Over 500,000 people have been displaced, 700 killed, and 2,800 injured in recent fighting, with reports of sexual violence and forced conscription by both sides.
The conflict, fueled by competition over the region's valuable minerals like coltan and gold, threatens to destabilize neighboring countries and exacerbate humanitarian crises.
The African Union and international organizations warn of potential pandemics due to worsening public health conditions and mass displacement in the region.
Diplomatic tensions between Rwanda, DR Congo, and regional powers such as South Africa have intensified, with calls for urgent multilateral action to address the crisis.