At least 319 civilians were killed by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo between 9 and 21 July, marking one of the deadliest surges in violence since the group re-emerged in 2022, according to a statement issued on Wednesday, August 6, by the UN human rights chief Volker Türk.
The attacks targeted four villages in North Kivu province’s Rutshuru territory and were reportedly carried out with the support of the Rwandan Defence Force. The UN’s findings, based on eyewitness accounts, have heightened concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in a region already devastated by years of armed conflict, involving over 100 militias.
The killings occurred just days after the Congolese government and the M23 rebels signed a declaration of principles in Qatar on 19 July, a preliminary step toward a comprehensive peace accord aimed at restoring state control and enabling the safe return of displaced populations. With Qatar mediating the dialogue, the goal is to reach a final agreement by 18 August. However, the resurgence of violence has cast a shadow over the process, with the UN urging an immediate halt to attacks on civilians. Neither the M23 nor the Rwandan government have issued statements in response to the allegations.