M23 and Rwandan forces escalate assault on Goma in Congo

The M23 armed group and Rwandan soldiers have intensified their assault on Goma, entering the city after weeks of siege. Heavy artillery and gunfire have been reported, causing widespread fear among residents. The Congolese government confirmed the rebels' presence but did not declare them in control. A mass jailbreak occurred at Munzenze prison, with thousands of inmates escaping amid the chaos. The situation has led to increased humanitarian concerns, with over 400,000 people displaced this year. International calls for an end to the violence have grown, with France warning Goma is on the brink of falling. Both the DRC and Rwanda have withdrawn diplomats from each other's capitals amid rising tensions. The UN Security Council has called for the withdrawal of external forces, while Rwanda has rejected accusations of supporting the M23. The conflict has escalated, with previous ceasefires failing to hold.