Heavy Explosion Reported in Addis Ababa Amid Heightened Security and Regional Conflict

Residents in various parts of Addis Ababa, including Gotera and Betel, along with diplomatic sources quoted by Reuters, reported hearing a powerful explosion around midnight on Wednesday. The blast reportedly shook buildings and set off car alarms, with some speculating it originated near the Ethiopian National Defense Force headquarters or the Tor Hayloch area. This incident follows a recent announcement by the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) prohibiting unauthorized drone flights in Addis Ababa and warning that non-compliant drones would be intercepted. Attempts by the BBC to get official statements from the Prime Minister's Office, the Ministry of Defense, and police authorities were unsuccessful, with police stating the matter did not concern them. The explosion occurs amid renewed conflict in northern Ethiopia involving a coalition of armed groups, allegations of Eritrean military involvement—which Asmara denies—and reports of non-state actors potentially acquiring drone capabilities. Analysts suggest any opposition strike capability in the capital could mark a significant shift in the country's security dynamics.