Rebels Announce Humanitarian Ceasefire in Eastern DR Congo

Rebel factions in eastern DR Congo, including the M23 group, have declared a humanitarian ceasefire beginning Tuesday, spurred by the urgent need to address the civilian toll amid ongoing conflicts. The declaration comes as recent violence has left over 900 dead and nearly 3,000 injured around Goma, DR Congo's largest city. International bodies, including the G7 and EU, have condemned the rebels' actions as violations of sovereignty, and humanitarian groups are pressing for accountability against those perpetrating the violence.

Amid claims of backing from Rwanda, the rebel group, self-identified as the Congo River Alliance, accused the Congolese military of inflicting harm through aerial bombardment on its positions. They vowed to maintain current territorial boundaries and prioritize civilian safety. This long-standing conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands, with the UN reporting over 400,000 people forced from their homes since early 2025. Calls for international sanctions on Rwanda are growing as Congolese officials seek global intervention to halt aggression that undermines peace in the region. Upcoming peace negotiations between Congolese and Rwandan leaders are anticipated, though the history of stalled talks raises concerns over their potential outcomes.