Ethiopia: Escalating fighting in the north worries the international community

The conflict in Ethiopia is experiencing a worrying intensification with the opening of several simultaneous military fronts in the north of the country. According to RFI, clashes broke out on September 25, 2026, around the Tekezé River in Western Tigray, pitting the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF) against federal forces. This geographical expansion is confirmed by the Acled network, which highlights a multiplication of tension zones, particularly in Afar and Amhara.

The humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly in the affected areas. In Abala and Serebti, the fighting is forcing populations to flee, leaving many civilians trapped between the front lines. In the Amhara region, the city of Lalibela is also suffering the consequences of these hostilities, with the closure of its airport. Furthermore, a disruption of telecommunications and internet networks has hindered access to information since September 24, 2026.

The human toll is rising in a context of increased violence. The Ethiopian federal army stated that more than 700 rebels were killed and 500 wounded during its recent counter-offensive. At the same time, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, expressed his deep concern over airstrikes that hit schools, as well as mortar fire that caused civilian casualties, particularly in Kobo.

International bodies are also denouncing the methods used by the belligerents. Volker Türk pointed to a campaign of forced recruitment of civilians, including children, attributed to the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), while also reporting arbitrary conscription practices by government forces. Faced with this situation, the UN is urging the parties to prioritize dialogue to avoid a generalized resumption of hostilities.

Our perspective

The persistence of this conflict in Ethiopia serves as a reminder of the urgency of a peaceful resolution to preserve the country's unity and stability. Beyond military stakes, it is the protection of the fundamental rights of citizens that must take precedence. Solidarity with civilian populations, the primary victims of these instabilities, remains a priority for the continent, which aspires to see its nations prioritize dialogue over armed confrontation.