Rebels claim control of Goma as Congo declares war situation

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have claimed control of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, prompting the Congolese government to declare a "war situation." The rebels issued a deadline for the Congolese army to surrender before launching their offensive. The United Nations reported mass panic among Goma's 2 million residents as gunfire erupted in the city. Many civilians are fleeing, fearing for their safety amid the escalating violence, which has already displaced a significant portion of the local population. Congo has severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the M23 rebels. The U.N. has condemned the offensive and warned of a deteriorating humanitarian situation as fighting intensifies in the region.