Troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have reportedly exchanged fire along their shared border in the eastern city of Goma, according to two United Nations sources. This escalation has deepened an already dire humanitarian crisis in a region scarred by two devastating wars between 1996 and 2003.

The clashes occur amidst an offensive by M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwanda. On Sunday, M23 rebels claimed they had captured Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, following a swift advance that forced thousands to flee and raised fears of a broader regional conflict.

The Congolese government, alongside U.N. officials and Western powers, including the United States, has accused neighbouring Rwanda of exacerbating the conflict by deploying thousands of troops and heavy weaponry in support of M23. France has expressed its solidarity and condemned actions by Rwanda in the country, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stating, "France strongly condemns the offensive led by the M23, backed by the Rwandan armed forces, which has led to the death of six peacekeepers and the displacement of several thousand people. Fighting must stop and dialogue resume."

Rwanda, however, denies supporting the M23 rebels. Kigali insists its actions are defensive and accuses Congo of collaborating with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia responsible for attacks on Tutsis in both countries. Rwanda has a long history of military involvement in Congo, having invaded alongside Uganda in 1996 and 1998, citing self-defence against local militias.

The situation in Goma has sparked widespread concern, with the humanitarian crisis in the region already dire. The escalation of violence has raised fears of a broader regional conflict, with thousands of people displaced and six peacekeepers killed. The international community is urging for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a resumption of dialogue to resolve the crisis peacefully.

The conflict has also drawn attention to the complex web of alliances and rivalries in the region. The M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwanda, have been accused of committing human rights abuses and perpetuating instability in the region. The Congolese government, on the other hand, has been accused of collaborating with the FDLR, a militia responsible for attacks on Tutsis in both countries.

The situation in Goma serves as a stark reminder of the region's tumultuous past and the need for sustained international engagement to prevent further destabilization. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, it is imperative that the international community takes concrete steps to address the root causes of the conflict and work towards a peaceful resolution.

In the meantime, the people of Goma and the surrounding region remain caught in the crossfire, facing an uncertain future amidst the escalating violence. The international community must act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed and ensure that the region does not slide back into chaos.