Rebels claim control of Goma as panic spreads among residents in eastern Congo

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have claimed control of Goma, eastern Congo's largest city, causing widespread panic among its 2 million residents. The Congolese government described the rebel advance as a "declaration of war" and reported significant military surrenders. The United Nations reported that the situation is deteriorating, with heavy gunfire heard in Goma and civilians fleeing to escape violence. The U.N. has begun relocating nonessential personnel as the M23 rebels advance, using residents as human shields. Congo has severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the M23. The U.N. and various countries have called for a ceasefire, while the humanitarian crisis in the region continues to worsen.