The Democratic Republic of Congo has requested military assistance from Chad to counter the escalating insurgency by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in its eastern provinces, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Congo’s Minister of Regional Integration met with Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno on Tuesday, relaying President Félix Tshisekedi’s appeal for military and diplomatic support. While Chad has acknowledged the request, no decision has been made, a senior Chadian official confirmed.
Growing Threat in Eastern Congo
The M23 rebellion, which has displaced over 1.5 million people, continues to destabilize the region. “The situation is deteriorating rapidly. We need regional cooperation,” said a Congolese government source who requested anonymity.
READ MORE: Nigeria Sees 9,100 Childhood Cancer Cases Annually Amid Calls for Urgent Action
Despite previous regional peace efforts, the rebel group has made significant territorial gains in recent months. The UN reports that over 200,000 people fled their homes in just the past month alone, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.
Chad Weighs Its Response
Chad’s government has yet to formally respond. There is no official position yet and any intervention would require extensive deliberation. Chad’s Foreign Minister dismissed earlier reports as “pure speculation.”
Neither Chad’s government spokesman Gassim Cherif nor President Tshisekedi’s spokesperson Tina Salama provided further details when contacted for comment.
Regional analysts warn that an intervention by Chad could shift the balance of power in the conflict but may also deepen regional tensions. This is a critical decision for Chad, balancing its own security interests with its role in regional stability.
