Ethiopia Land Conflict Displaces Thousands, Sparking Humanitarian Crisis
According to the United Nations, the ongoing conflict over disputed land along the borders of Ethiopia’s Tigray and Amhara regions has resulted in the displacement of approximately 29,000 people. The clashes erupted last week in the Raya Alamata district, claimed by both areas.
Authorities in Amhara have accused Tigray forces of initiating the conflict through an invasion of the district. However, former rebels in Tigray have refuted these allegations. The recent hostilities come in the wake of a two-year civil war in Ethiopia, which concluded in late 2022 with a peace agreement between the central government and Tigray forces. Nevertheless, unresolved issues such as contested territories, the disarmament of former combatants, and the plight of hundreds of thousands of displaced Tigrayans continue to fuel tensions.
Raya Alamata, previously under Tigray control until the outbreak of conflict in 2020, has since been seized by Amhara forces. Reports indicate that Tigray forces have retaliated by advancing into specific areas within the district.
The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal for life-saving assistance, noting that many displaced families seek refuge in open spaces within nearby Amhara districts such as Kobo and Sekota. Meanwhile, embassies representing seven Western countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have issued a joint statement expressing deep concern over the reported violence. They have called for immediate de-escalation of tensions and urged for measures to facilitate disarmament and demobilization efforts.
The situation underscores the ongoing fragility and complexity of Ethiopia’s post-conflict landscape, highlighting the urgent need for diplomatic intervention and humanitarian aid to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent further escalation of violence.
