A draft peace agreement has been reached between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, aiming to end decades of deadly conflict in eastern DR Congo. Mediated by the US and Qatar, the deal outlines disengagement, disarmament, and conditional integration of armed groups, including the M23 rebels — whose recent territorial gains have displaced hundreds of thousands and cost many lives. Rwanda denies backing the M23, while accusing DR Congo of supporting the FDLR, a militia linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The deal includes provisions for a joint security mechanism to prevent future hostilities and could pave the way for substantial Western investment in the mineral-rich region. However, significant uncertainties remain: Will the M23 fully withdraw? Will Rwanda acknowledge its troop presence and pull back? Can the FDLR be disarmed effectively this time? A formal signing is expected next week, witnessed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Observers are cautiously hopeful, recalling past failed accords. True peace will require political will, accountability, and lasting humanitarian access for displaced civilians.