The M23 rebels have been attempting to gain a foothold in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, which lies along the border with Rwanda. This is part of a long-standing conflict that has spanned decades and contributed to one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world.

Panic spread throughout Goma on Thursday as M23 rebels advanced toward the city in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, clashing with the Congolese military. The rebels' movements triggered a strong military response, with Congolese helicopter gunships flying over the plains and launching volleys of rockets. Troops were also deployed toward the front lines to prevent the rebels from reaching Goma, the provincial capital of Congo's eastern region, after the M23 had previously captured a number of towns.

In recent weeks, the M23 rebels have been making significant progress in their offensive, steadily advancing toward Goma, a city that is home to approximately 2 million people. Goma serves as a vital regional hub for both security and humanitarian efforts. The M23, one of around 100 armed groups active in eastern Congo, is fighting for control of the region, which is rich in minerals and borders Rwanda. This ongoing conflict has been a central aspect of the wider crisis in Congo, which has lasted for decades and has contributed to one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world.

As a direct consequence of the continued fighting, over 7 million people have been displaced from their homes. Earlier this month, the M23 rebels took control of several towns, including Minova, Katale, and Masisi, located to the west of Goma.

In a statement on social media platform X, M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka asserted, "The people of Goma have suffered greatly, like other Congolese. M23 is on its way to liberate them, and they must prepare to welcome this liberation."

In response to the escalating situation, schools in Goma were closed on Thursday morning, with students sent home as a precautionary measure.

Accusations have been leveled against Rwanda, with experts from Congo, the United States, and the United Nations claiming that the country is providing support to the M23 rebels. The rebels are primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis who defected from the Congolese army over a decade ago.

Later in the day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the resumption of hostilities. He condemned the M23's renewed offensive, which has been ongoing since the start of the year, in the strongest terms. In his statement, Guterres stated, "This offensive has a devastating toll on the civilian population and heightened the risk of a broader regional war," calling for an immediate cessation of the violence.