The Democratic Republic of Congo has taken a drastic measure to curb the escalating conflict in the region by closing its airspace to all civil and state aircraft registered or based in Rwanda.
This decision comes as the fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese forces resumed on the Lubero front in the eastern province of North Kivu.
The conflict has resulted in devastating humanitarian consequences, with over 3,000 people killed, 2,880 injured, and more than 500,000 displaced since January 26.
The situation is further complicated by the presence of peacekeepers, with at least 20 killed, including 14 from South Africa.
The M23 rebels have made significant gains, claiming control of Goma and declaring their own administration in the city.
The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of backing the rebels and sending its forces to eastern Congo, allegations that Rwanda denies.
The airspace ban is a significant escalation in the conflict, and its impact on the region remains to be seen.
