• DR Congo and M23 have signed a deal to monitor a ceasefire, facilitated by Qatar.
• The new mechanism will include representatives from both parties and observers from Qatar, the US, and the African Union.
• M23 controls significant territories in eastern Congo, including Goma and Bukavu, amidst ongoing violence.
• The agreement aims to protect civilians and ensure a lasting peace, although fighting continues.
• Over 7 million people have been displaced due to the conflict in the region.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group have reached a significant agreement to establish an international mechanism for monitoring a ceasefire that remains unimplemented, despite previous agreements. This latest deal was signed during a ceremony in Doha, Qatar, and emphasizes the commitment of both parties to ceasing hostilities and protecting civilian populations, as reported by aa, indiatimes, and africanews.

The newly formed body will consist of representatives from both the Congolese government and the M23, aiming to facilitate dialogue and oversee adherence to the ceasefire terms. Observers from Qatar, the United States, and the African Union will participate in monitoring activities, which will include investigating reported violations, according to statements from the Qatari Foreign Ministry and confirmed by aa and indiatimes.

M23, which has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda and controls substantial portions of the North and South Kivu provinces, considers the establishment of this monitoring body a "significant advancement." However, both sides continue to accuse each other of violating ceasefire agreements, and the humanitarian situation remains dire, with over 7 million people displaced, as reported by africanews and indiatimes.