Rebels kill 13 foreign peacekeepers in clashes near Goma, DR Congo

Thirteen foreign peacekeepers were killed in clashes with the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The South African military reported nine of its soldiers died while fighting to defend Goma, alongside three Malawians and one Uruguayan. The UN is evacuating non-essential staff from Goma as fighting escalates. The M23 has captured more territory, leading to over 400,000 people fleeing their homes this year. The conflict has intensified since January, with local leaders reporting significant civilian casualties. DR Congo has severed ties with Rwanda, accusing it of supporting the M23. The UN and various countries have condemned the violence, urging for an end to the fighting. The humanitarian crisis in the region continues to worsen.