M23 rebels launch new offensive in east DRC amid growing tensions before crisis summit

A new wave of violence erupted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels launched an offensive just days before the presidents of both East African countries are set to meet for a crisis summit in Dar es Salaam.
The renewed clashes come days after the M23 group declared a unilateral ceasefire earlier this week, which appears to have now crumbled as the rebels seized key territory, including a key mining town in South Kivu province. Reports indicate that intense fighting has resumed around Nyabibwe, about 100 kilometers from Bukavu, with the M23 fighters advancing toward the provincial capital. The escalation follows the M23’s capture of Goma, the capital of the neighboring North Kivu province, last week. The UN’s deputy head of mission in Goma, Vivian van de Perre, reported that nearly 3,000 people have died in the battle for Goma, with bodies still being collected from the streets and morgues.
Despite the ceasefire announcement, the M23’s actions suggest their intent to continue military operations. The Congolese government has denounced the ceasefire as a “false communication” and accused the rebels of using it as a tactic to regroup. “This is proof that the ceasefire was just a ploy,” DRC government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya stated. The escalating violence has sparked international concern, with the United Nations and regional blocs, including the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), pushing for a peaceful resolution. As the conflict threatens to spill beyond the DRC’s borders, both Congolese and Rwandan leaders have agreed to attend a summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, later this week in an attempt to address the growing crisis. However, local residents and international observers fear that without concrete action, the violence will continue to worsen.