• UN human rights chief Volker Türk warns of worsening conditions if violence in eastern DR Congo continues.
• The Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group has taken control of significant territories, exacerbating humanitarian crises.
• A regional summit has called for an immediate ceasefire and investigation into human rights violations.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) faces escalating violence primarily due to the actions of the M23 rebel group, which has recently seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. This latest offensive has culminated in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement, triggering urgent international concern. At a recent summit in Tanzania, African leaders, including Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, gathered to discuss the alarming situation, calling for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and the establishment of humanitarian corridors.

Since January 26, nearly 3,000 people have been killed, and 2,880 injured as conflict escalates in the mineral-rich region. The UN Human Rights Council was informed that the violence not only impacts DRC but poses broader risks for the surrounding regions if action is not taken. Türk emphasized that the global community must acknowledge its complicity, as the minerals exploited during this conflict are integral to industries such as technology.

During this summit, the leaders articulated their need for military chiefs from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to meet within five days to develop tactical plans aimed at enforcing the ceasefire. Observations from recent fighting indicate that the M23 is advancing towards Kavumu, a key location for military supply routes, agitating local populations who are attempting to evacuate amid panic.

Despite Rwanda's denial of any military involvement, numerous reports suggest that around 4,000 Rwandan troops may be operating within DRC, allegedly profiting from the illegal extraction of valuable minerals such as gold and coltan. Rwanda has accused the DRC of harboring Hutu-led militias responsible for violence, complicating the already tense relations.

Additionally, an emerging concern highlighted by the UN is the alarming rise in cases of sexual violence, particularly gang rape and sexual slavery, underscored by recent reports of violent attacks on medical facilities. Türk remarked on the horrific conditions in Goma, where health services are collapsing under the strain of violence and lack of supplies. The overall circumstances, including the ongoing influx of displaced people, signal a catastrophic humanitarian crisis that demands immediate intervention.

As local leaders and civilians express their urgent need for safety and resources, the international community is urged to intensify their response. The UN continues to advocate for humanitarian aid to reach the conflict-affected areas, stressing that without significant intervention, the consequences could spiral dangerously out of control.

For more details, see the full reports from Al Jazeera, India Times, and The Guardian, among other sources.