M23 rebels have surrounded Goma. This is a major city in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The capital of North Kivu Province is now under threat. The lives of about three million people are at risk.
Rebels Surround Key City
In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, M23 rebels, reportedly supported by Rwanda, have encircled Goma. The provincial capital, home to approximately three million people, faces a dire threat. Heavy clashes have erupted in Sake, located about 25 kilometers from Goma. This town is the last barrier before the rebels can advance further.
Deadly Clashes and International Response
Recent fighting near Goma resulted in the deaths of nine South African peacekeepers, including two members of the UN mission MONUSCO. The South African military confirmed these casualties, while the UN earlier reported nine injured soldiers. In response, the UN Security Council scheduled an urgent meeting to address the crisis.
The European Union (EU), African Union, and the United Nations have jointly demanded an end to the violence. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned Rwanda’s military presence in Congo, calling it a violation of international law, the UN Charter, and Congo’s territorial integrity. Both Congo’s government and UN experts accuse Rwanda of supplying weapons to the M23 rebels, although Rwanda denies involvement.
Conflict Driven by Resource Control
Eastern Congo is rich in resources, particularly coltan, a critical component in electronics and electric vehicle batteries. The M23 rebels control coltan mining in their occupied territories, securing significant economic leverage. Originally active in North Kivu province, the group has expanded its operations to South Kivu, where UN peacekeepers withdrew last year.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
In recent days, the M23 rebels captured the strategic town of Minova and temporarily took Sake before being pushed back by Congolese forces. Rebels are now using heavy artillery from surrounding hills, endangering civilians caught in the crossfire. Blue-helmeted UN soldiers are patrolling alongside Congo’s army to protect civilians.
The UN reports that over 400,000 people have fled the violence in the last three weeks. Many face shortages of food, water, and medical care. Fear of Goma’s fall has driven refugees across the border into Rwanda.
This escalating conflict highlights the urgent need for international action to restore stability in the region.