The deadly toll of the M23’s military escalation has presented an urgent call for international attention and support, including consideration of punitive measures against armed groups that attack civilians and peacekeepers. It also forced SADC member states to make a choice: showcase their commitment to regional conflict management under the SADC Mutual Defence Pact by reinforcing SAMIDRC or withdraw the mission. Their choice for withdrawal reflected waning political support for the mission, particularly among the three troop-contributing countries (TCCs), as the operating environment turned more hostile and the mission failed to show results.