GOMA, DR CONGO — In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing conflict, M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, announced their claim over Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), early Monday morning. This announcement comes after a 48-hour deadline for the Congolese army to surrender expired, coinciding with fierce gunfire ringing out across the city.

The M23, whose name refers to the March 23, 2009, peace agreement that ended a previous Tutsi-led rebellion, has intensified its efforts to capture Goma since the start of the year. Local witnesses report that the city has become a scene of chaos, with significant military presence observed, although the Congolese government has not officially confirmed the takeover. According to reports, residents describe a tense atmosphere as they hear continuous shooting and explosions in the vicinity, leading many to flee in search of safety.

The fighting in Goma is the latest chapter in a conflict that has plagued the eastern DRC for over 30 years, primarily revolving around the rich mineral resources in the region. As the M23 rebels assert control, humanitarian organizations warn that the already dire situation could worsen, with over 6 million people displaced and a significant portion of North Kivu's population affected by the conflict. According to the UN, more than a third of the population in North Kivu province is now displaced due to the violence.

UN Security Council members have condemned the actions of the M23 rebels, urging them to halt any advances and respect the sovereignty of the DRC. The Congolese government has reacted strongly, describing the rebel advances as a "declaration of war" and severing diplomatic ties with Rwanda, a move that underscores the escalating tensions in the region.

As the situation remains fluid, the international community, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, has called for calm and an immediate cessation of hostilities. The complex interplay between regional politics, local grievances, and external influences continues to shape this multifaceted conflict.

The M23 continues to demand surrender from the Congolese military, while civilians face the brunt of the crisis, leading to mass evacuations towards neighboring countries like Rwanda. The humanitarian impact is expected to escalate as fighting intensifies, with many residents leaving their homes under fear of violence.