Rebels advance on Goma as fighting escalates in eastern Congo

Fighting has intensified in eastern Congo as M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have captured key towns and are approaching Goma, the last government stronghold in North Kivu province. Local hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, and thousands have been displaced. The rebels recently took control of Sake, just 27 kilometers from Goma, and other strategic locations. The governor of North Kivu died from injuries sustained while visiting troops. Military checkpoints have been established in Goma amid rising tensions. The conflict has led to over 400,000 people being displaced this year, worsening humanitarian conditions. The situation is critical, with fears that Goma could fall, echoing a similar event in 2012 when the city was briefly captured by the M23.