DRC government, M23 rebels commit to protect civilians, aid deliveries

The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and rival M23 rebels have agreed to ease aid deliveries and release prisoners as part of efforts to resolve a long-standing conflict. The two sides announced the measures in a joint statement, pledging not to target civilians and to facilitate medical care for the wounded and sick. They also signed a memorandum of understanding for a ceasefire monitoring mechanism.