Rwanda-Backed Rebels Escalate Violence in Eastern Congo, Displacing Thousands

M23 rebels continue their advance into South Kivu, worsening a humanitarian crisis and raising fears of a broader regional conflict.

M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda according to multiple reports, have resumed attacks in South Kivu after capturing Goma, killing thousands and displacing over 500,000 people since January.
The conflict has intensified humanitarian needs, with over 6.7 million people displaced in the region and aid efforts hindered by looted warehouses, airport closures, and a U.S. foreign aid freeze.
Sexual violence has surged, with reports of mass rapes, including atrocities during a prison break in Goma, highlighting the use of sexual violence as a weapon of war.
Peace efforts led by regional blocs and religious leaders have shown little progress, with ceasefire agreements repeatedly collapsing and tensions between Congo and Rwanda escalating.
The fighting is deeply tied to control over Congo's vast mineral wealth, with M23 reportedly profiting from mining areas critical to global electronics supply chains.