y by Qatar and the United States , sets out a “comprehensive roadmap” aimed at stopping the violence and improving the worsening humanitarian crisis. Officials stressed that while the deal will not immediately change conditions on the ground, it marks a significant step toward a broader, long-term peace settlement. Months of Mediation The two parties have been engaged in Qatar-mediated negotiations for several months, previously signing a truce deal in July. The new framework builds on those earlier commitments but still requires further detailed negotiations on implementation. Qatar’s Minister of State, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi , said the agreement strengthens ongoing efforts to “find peaceful solutions through dialogue and understanding” to restore stability in the DRC. He highlighted progress made on several core issues during the long mediation process. Eight Implementation Protocols The peace framework includes eight implementation protocols . Two have already been signed: Ceasefire monitoring Prisoner exchange The remaining six protocols — including timelines, humanitarian access, and the return of refugees and internally displaced people — will be negotiated and finalised in the coming weeks. US Praises Agreement US envoy Massad Boulos , representing the administration of President Donald Trump, praised Qatar’s role and said the deal represents a “launching pad” for a full peace accord. “This is a process, not a light switch,” Boulos said, noting that expectations for immediate changes on the ground are unrealistic, but the agreement sets critical foundations for progress. Fighting Continues Despite New Deal Reporting from Goma , Al Jazeera’s Alain Uakyani said residents welcome the agreement but remain cautious. Despite the deal, fighting has not stopped. The M23 claims its positions were bombarded by government forces on Saturday morning , and the group says it captured more territory in response. Humanitarian Crisis Still Severe The conflict in eastern DRC has displaced millions, with many communities living in overcrowded camps lacking food, sanitation, and medical services. Peace protocols on humanitarian access are expected to be among the most urgent during upcoming talks.