Jan 28, (V7N) - The escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has led to a deepening humanitarian crisis, with at least 17 deaths and nearly 370 injuries reported following clashes in Goma, as Congolese forces struggle against M23 rebels backed by Rwanda's military, according to hospital sources and officials on Monday.

Fighting in Goma: Artillery fire and gunshots echoed across the city of over one million residents, many of whom are sheltering in fear. Clashes intensified as the M23 claimed partial control of Goma, with the group labeling it a "liberation."

Civilian Impact: Most of the casualties were civilians. Hospitals in the city are overwhelmed, treating 367 wounded, with the International Committee of the Red Cross describing the situation as dire.

Mass Displacement: According to the UN, 500,000 people have been displaced this month alone, adding to the region's ongoing humanitarian disaster.

Rwandan Involvement: Rwanda has been accused by the DRC of using the M23 rebel group to exploit the mineral-rich region, particularly gold. Rwanda denies these allegations but has rejected international calls to withdraw from the conflict.

Border Tensions: Cross-border exchanges of fire have occurred near Gisenyi, a Rwandan town. Rwanda reported five civilian deaths and 25 injuries due to Congolese shelling.

International Response:

The African Union Peace and Security Council will convene on Tuesday, followed by a crisis summit with Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Wednesday.

The UN Security Council has called for external forces to withdraw but stopped short of naming Rwanda explicitly.

The US has reiterated its support for DRC sovereignty and encouraged renewed dialogue between the two nations.

Jailbreak: A prison was torched amidst the chaos, leading to a mass escape and fatalities.

UN Involvement: Peacekeepers from MONUSCO (the UN force in the DRC) reported some Congolese soldiers surrendering and handing over weapons. However, 13 UN peacekeepers have been killed during the clashes.

Economic Fallout: The DRC has called for an embargo on all minerals labeled as Rwandan, especially gold, accusing Rwanda of illegally profiting from the conflict.

The conflict risks further destabilizing central Africa, with fears of a full-scale regional war. The DRC-Rwanda relationship has deteriorated, with both nations withdrawing diplomats and tensions escalating.

The situation in Goma exemplifies the complex dynamics of mineral wealth, rebel alliances, and national sovereignty that have plagued the DRC for decades. Immediate diplomatic and humanitarian efforts are crucial to prevent further bloodshed and displacement.