GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo – Tensions escalated dramatically on Thursday as M23 rebels advanced toward the city of Goma, igniting panic among its approximately 2 million residents.
The clashes between the rebels and the Congolese military have led to a surge in civilian casualties and displacement, further exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
Explosions and Injuries: A City on Edge
As the M23 rebels closed in on Goma, explosions reverberated from the outskirts, overwhelming local hospitals with hundreds of injured civilians transported from nearby towns such as Mubambiro and Saké.
Eyewitnesses described harrowing escapes from violent attacks, with many fleeing the chaos that unfolded just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Goma.
Reports indicate that Saké has fallen under rebel control, adding to the growing list of towns captured by M23 in recent weeks.
This latest offensive has forced over 178,000 people to flee their homes, contributing to one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world.
The Ongoing Conflict
The M23 rebel group is one of approximately 100 armed factions vying for control in the mineral-rich eastern DRC, a region plagued by decades of conflict.
The group has made significant gains recently, capturing key towns like Minova, Katale, and Masisi, all strategically located west of Goma.
In 2012, M23 briefly seized Goma, holding it for over a week before international pressure forced a retreat.
The current situation raises fears that history may be repeating itself as the rebels continue their advance.
Schools Close Amid Rising Fear
In response to the escalating violence, schools in Goma sent students home early on Thursday morning.
“The safety of the people must be ensured,” stated a concerned teacher. “With thousands of students here, it’s unsafe to keep them at school. We must act prudently.”
As panic spreads through the city, many residents are left wondering how long they can remain safe amidst ongoing hostilities.
Accusations Against Rwanda
The DRC government, alongside U.S. and U.N. experts, has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, an allegation that Kigali has consistently denied.
The M23 group primarily consists of ethnic Tutsis who defected from the Congolese army more than a decade ago and claim to defend Tutsi interests against Hutu militias linked to past genocides.
A Call for International Attention
As the situation continues to deteriorate, humanitarian organizations are calling for urgent international attention to address the escalating crisis.
With over 7 million people displaced due to ongoing violence in eastern DRC, immediate action is needed to provide assistance and support to those affected.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed alarm at the renewed hostilities, condemning the violence and urging for an immediate ceasefire.
“This offensive has a devastating toll on the civilian population and heightened the risk of a broader regional war,” he stated.
A Region in Turmoil
The advance of M23 rebels toward Goma marks a critical juncture in an already volatile region.
As civilians flee their homes and hospitals fill with casualties, the need for humanitarian aid becomes increasingly urgent.
The international community must respond swiftly to prevent further suffering and support efforts for peace and stability in eastern Congo.
