Crisis in Congo: Battles on streets of Goma as M23 rebels make tearing advance

The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwandan forces, has entered Goma, a major city in eastern DR Congo. Goma, with over a million residents, is a vital trading hub near mineral-rich areas. The rebels claimed control over the city, while the Congolese government asserted its troops still hold key locations. (Image credits: AP)

The M23 rebels are one of about 100 armed groups vying for a foothold in the conflict-battered North Kivu province—which includes Goma—rich in minerals critical to much of the world’s technology. (Image credits: AP)

The Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) prolonged conflict arises from post-colonial power struggles, ethnic tensions, political corruption, and competition for natural resources. Over a hundred armed groups, many driven by local grievances and political manipulation, operate across the country, leading to ongoing violence and instability. The M23 rebel alliance's advance has displaced thousands in the mineral-rich east, raising concerns about a broader regional war.(Image credits: AP)

The conflict has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes, exacerbating the already critical humanitarian crisis. Displaced families are seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters, lacking basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care. (Image credits: AP)

There are reports of gender-based violence and rape committed by fighters, looting of property, including a humanitarian warehouse, and humanitarian and health facilities being hit in the city, UN humanitarian affairs office spokesman Jens Laerke said at a media briefing. (Image credits: AP)

In the capital, Kinshasa, police fired tear gas at protesters as they looted and set fires to parts of the embassy buildings. The embassies of Kenya and Uganda were also attacked, according to Associated Press journalists at the scene. (Image credits: AP)

People displaced by the fighting with M23 rebels made their way to the center of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo (Image credits: AP)

The international community is calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to peace talks. The African Union, United Nations, and various countries, including the United States and France, are urging all parties to halt the violence and engage in dialogue to resolve the crisis. (Image credits: AP)

The resurgence of the M23 insurgency poses a significant challenge to regional stability. Unlike their brief occupation in 2012-2013, the current dynamics have shifted, making this resurgence harder to counter due to global inattention, military complexities, and Rwanda's strategic positioning. (Image credits: AP)

The United Nations has warned of an "extremely worrying" humanitarian situation in Goma. The UN's humanitarian office reported that hospitals are overwhelmed, and there are significant shortages of essential supplies. The world food program has temporarily paused food assistance activities in the Goma area due to the ongoing conflict. (Image credits: AP)