Hundreds killed in M23 massacre as Congo peace hopes crumble

The United Nations has confirmed that at least 319 civilians — including 48 women and 19 children — were brutally killed by M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) between 9 and 21 July, marking one of the deadliest episodes since the group’s resurgence in 2022.
According to UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk, the victims were mostly local farmers camped in their fields during the planting season in four villages in North Kivu’s Rutshuru territory. Witnesses reported that guns and machetes were used in the attacks, amplifying concerns over the rebels’ tactics and disregard for civilian life. The killings come despite recent peace agreements — the peace deal between DRC and Rwanda inked in Washington on 27 June, and the 19 July Doha Declaration between the DRC government and M23 — which promised ceasefires and a path to stability.
“I am appalled by the attacks on civilians … amid continued fighting, despite the ceasefire that was recently signed in Doha,” Türk said, calling for accountability and protection for civilians. “All attacks against civilians must stop immediately, and all those responsible must be held to account,” Türk added. The massacre reflects a wider escalation of violence in eastern Congo, where other groups like the ADF and CODECO have also committed atrocities in July, further compounding a growing humanitarian crisis. Over 7.8 million people are displaced, with food insecurity affecting 28 million, and aid efforts faltering under pressure. As regional leaders prepare for renewed talks, the Rutshuru killings stand as a stark reminder: peace on paper has yet to reach the people on the ground.