Heavy fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese government forces in the eastern city of Goma has left dozens dead and many more wounded. On Monday, the M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda according to the UN, entered the city and declared it under their control, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
While Congolese government sources claim they control 80 percent of Goma, hospitals in the city are struggling to cope with the influx of casualties. At least 17 people were confirmed dead on Monday, with other reports suggesting the toll could be as high as 25. In total, over 360 people have been treated for injuries, many from gunshots and shrapnel.
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The fighting has forced thousands to flee Goma, a key humanitarian hub. The UN and aid agencies warned that hospitals are overwhelmed and food assistance operations in the region have been temporarily halted. The World Food Programme expressed concern over growing food shortages as a result of the ongoing violence.
In related news, South Africa confirmed that three of its soldiers were killed in the crossfire, raising the death toll of South African casualties in the region to 13 over the past week. The fighting has displaced hundreds of thousands, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis in the region.
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