Civilians Trapped as Congo Fighting Intensifies

Intense fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is pushing civilians to a breaking point. Clashes are raging in Fizi territory between the Congolese army, allied local militias, and the M23 rebel group. The conflict is drawing in new recruits, swelling the ranks of the armed groups. Civilians are caught directly in the crossfire of the violence. The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, a claim Rwanda denies. The situation creates a severe humanitarian crisis for those living in the conflict zone.