Ethiopia: UN Warns Northern Ethiopia Escalation Threatens Civilians, Aid Operations

The United Nations has expressed growing concerns over the escalating conflict in northern Ethiopia, warning that renewed fighting is putting civilians, especially those displaced by previous wars, at increased risk and generating new displacement. United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Ozonnia Ojielo stated that he is closely monitoring the situation alongside the humanitarian community and partners in the affected regions.

The UN official highlighted the serious risks to the protection of civilians, following UN Secretary-General António Guterres' recent call for maximum restraint, protection of civilians, and unhindered humanitarian access. Ojielo reported that Médecins Sans Frontières had treated over 720 wounded individuals since September 22 in the Tigray region.

He also warned of significant disruptions to humanitarian operations, including the seizure of at least 10 aid vehicles by armed groups, with only two recovered, as well as incidents of kidnapping, extortion, and harassment against aid workers. Aid organizations have faced challenges as public buildings and critical infrastructure have been occupied, damaged, or vandalized.

The UN official emphasized that humanitarian personnel and assets are protected under international humanitarian law, cautioning against any targeting. The UN's latest warning comes amid documented violations during Ethiopia's 2020-2022 war in Tigray, Amhara, and Afar, where killings, sexual violence, torture, forced displacement, and attacks on civilian infrastructure were reported by international and Ethiopian rights monitors.

The ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia continues to pose significant risks to humanitarian access and could exacerbate the existing humanitarian crisis.