Over 50,000 Displaced by Armed Clashes in Northern Ethiopia

Armed clashes in a disputed area of northern Ethiopia have displaced over 50,000 people, according to the United Nations. The violence erupted in Alamata Town, Raya Alamata, Zata, and Ofla starting on April 13, 2024, between fighters from the rival Tigray and Amhara regions. "The humanitarian situation is dire," the UN stated, with thousands of women and children in urgent need of assistance.

The disputed territory, which includes the Raya Alamata area in southern Tigray, is claimed by both the Tigray and Amhara regions. Amhara forces had occupied Raya Alamata during the two-year war between Ethiopia's government and Tigrayan authorities, but were supposed to withdraw under a peace deal signed in November 2022. However, the withdrawal has not occurred, leading to the current violence.

Why this matters: The clashes in northern Ethiopia highlight the ongoing ethnic tensions and territorial disputes in the country, even after the signing of a peace agreement. The displacement of over 50,000 civilians emphasizes the severe humanitarian consequences of the conflict and the pressing need for a lasting resolution.

The international community, including the United States, Japan, Britain, and France, has expressed concern about the situation and called for dialogue and de-escalation to protect civilians. The Amhara regional administration has accused the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) of "invading" the area, while a senior TPLF member claimed that the recent developments are the work of "diehard enemies" trying to derail the peace deal.

Local authorities in the Kobo area reported that no government arrangements were made to receive the displaced, leaving them to fend for themselves without designated shelters. The UN has highlighted the urgent need for broad humanitarian support, particularly for vulnerable women and children, as the government and aid partners struggle to keep up with the escalating crisis. The situation on the ground remains difficult to verify independently due to restricted media access in northern Ethiopia.

Key Takeaways

• Over 50,000 displaced by clashes between Tigray and Amhara forces in northern Ethiopia.
• Disputed territory of Raya Alamata claimed by both Tigray and Amhara regions.
• Ongoing ethnic tensions and territorial disputes despite peace deal signed in 2022.
• Urgent need for humanitarian support, particularly for women and children, as crisis escalates.
• Independent verification of situation difficult due to restricted media access in the region.