Rwanda-backed M23 rebels advanced into eastern Congo's Walikale, despite a ceasefire call by the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. The attack has intensified conflict in the mineral-rich region, displacing over 7 million people. The U.N. is investigating alleged atrocities by both sides.

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels continued their advance into eastern Congo on Wednesday, reaching the outskirts of Walikale just a day after the presidents of Congo and Rwanda called for an immediate ceasefire.

According to local residents, gunfire was heard near Walikale's Nyabangi neighborhood. Some witnesses described the sounds of intense conflict, while a military source, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the rebels had clashed with both Congolese soldiers and pro-government militias. The source revealed that the fighting began when the M23 rebels launched a surprise attack on an army position just outside the town.

Walikale, home to approximately 15,000 people and known for its mineral wealth, is now the furthest west the M23 rebels have advanced during their rapid offensive this year. The town is situated about 125 kilometers (80 miles) northwest of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, which fell to the rebels in January. This new incursion places the M23 fighters within 400 kilometers of Kisangani, Congo’s fourth-largest city.

The attack occurred despite a meeting held on Tuesday in Qatar between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda. This meeting marked their first direct talks, and both leaders called for an immediate ceasefire to address the ongoing unrest in the region.

M23 is just one of approximately 100 armed groups operating in mineral-rich eastern Congo, near the border with Rwanda. These groups have been fighting for control of the region, creating one of the world's most significant humanitarian crises. The conflict has displaced over 7 million people, leading to severe suffering and instability.

According to U.N. experts, the M23 rebels are backed by roughly 4,000 troops from Rwanda. The group has, at times, threatened to march as far as Kinshasa, Congo's capital, located about 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) to the west.

In response to the ongoing violence, the U.N. Human Rights Council established a commission last month to investigate reported atrocities, including allegations of rape and killings resembling “summary executions” by both sides of the conflict. The commission aims to hold those responsible accountable and bring justice to the victims affected by the prolonged conflict.