Rwanda-backed rebels advance on Goma prompting panic and war declaration from Congo

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have advanced to the outskirts of Goma, Congo's largest city, prompting mass panic among its 2 million residents. The Congolese government has labeled this move a "declaration of war" and severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda. The situation has escalated, with heavy gunfire reported and the airport closed. The U.N. has expressed concern for civilians, as the M23 rebels threaten to take control of Goma, using residents as human shields during their advance. Congo's army, supported by U.N. peacekeepers, is attempting to repel the offensive. Recent violence has resulted in the deaths of several peacekeepers, raising fears of a worsening humanitarian crisis in the region.