Thousands Left Homeless as Ethiopian Land Violence Escalates

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Nearly 29,000 people have been displaced due to renewed fighting over disputed land along the borders of Ethiopia's Tigray and Amhara regions, according to the United Nations. The conflict erupted last week in the Raya Alamata district, a contentious area claimed by both regions.

Amhara officials have accused Tigrayan forces of initiating an invasion, an allegation that former rebels in Tigray vehemently deny.

The area has been a flashpoint between the two regions, especially since the onset of the civil war in 2020, which formally ended in late 2022 when the central government and Tigrayan forces reached a peace agreement.

Despite the peace deal, several critical issues remain unresolved, including the status of contested territories and the disarmament of former combatants. Moreover, the question of reintegration for hundreds of thousands of Tigrayans displaced during the conflict continues to be a major concern.

Raya Alamata was controlled by Tigray until Amhara forces took over during the 2020 conflict. Recent reports indicate that Tigray forces have made advancements in some areas of the district amidst the latest surge of violence.

The United Nations has highlighted the dire need for life-saving assistance, noting that many displaced families are currently taking shelter in open areas within the nearby Amhara districts of Kobo and Sekota. The situation remains tense and precarious for those affected.

In response to the escalating situation, embassies from seven Western countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over the violence.

They are urging both sides to de-escalate tensions and to proceed with the disarmament and demobilization of forces as stipulated in the peace agreement.

The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, calling for immediate and effective actions to stabilize the region and prevent further humanitarian crises.