Congo’s eastern conflict took a step toward resolution on Saturday as the M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, signed a framework agreement for a potential peace deal. The development marks the latest effort to address the decades-long unrest that has displaced an estimated 7 million people in the mineral-rich region.
Earlier in 2025, M23 escalated tensions by capturing the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu. The group is one of more than 100 armed factions vying for control in eastern Congo, a situation the United Nations has described as “one of the most protracted and complex humanitarian crises on Earth.”
The framework, signed in Doha under the mediation of Qatar and the United States, is not a final peace agreement but outlines the necessary steps toward achieving one, according to M23 delegation head Benjamin Mbonimpa. “There will be no change on the ground or activities undertaken until each measure is debated, negotiated, and a final agreement is reached,” Mbonimpa said in a video posted on X.
The Congolese government stated that the framework includes eight key measures. Two of these agreements on prisoner releases and the creation of a ceasefire oversight body had already been signed in September and October. The remaining six measures, which address restoring state authority in rebel-held areas, humanitarian access, and the resettlement of displaced persons, are set for discussion over the next two weeks.
Qatar has hosted multiple rounds of talks since April, primarily to establish preconditions and confidence-building steps. Despite these efforts, both sides continue to accuse each other of violating previous agreements. In July, Congo and M23 signed a declaration of principles in Qatar, aiming to finalize a comprehensive peace deal by August 18 a deadline that was subsequently missed amid mutual accusations of breaches.
Massad Boulos, senior adviser to former U.S. President Donald Trump, attended Saturday’s ceremony in Doha and described the framework agreement as a “starting point” and a “historic opportunity,” expressing optimism about a productive outcome. The Trump administration has also mediated between Rwanda alleged to back M23 and Congo, culminating in a bilateral peace deal signed in June.
