Amnesty Urges AU Emergency Meeting as Northern Ethiopia Conflict Escalates

Amnesty International has called on the African Peace and Security Council to convene an urgent meeting regarding the escalating conflict in Ethiopia. The human rights organization highlighted concerns over heavy civilian casualties, forced conscriptions, and airstrikes reported in regions including Tigray, Amhara, and Afar. The renewed hostilities follow the formation of an alliance involving the TPLF and six other armed groups. Meanwhile, Ethiopia has accused Eritrea and Egypt of supporting these armed factions, leading to a severe diplomatic rift and a mutual severing of ties between Addis Ababa and Asmara. The African Union Commission expressed deep concern over the tensions among Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Egypt, calling for maximum restraint and diplomatic dialogue. Furthermore, regional directors and AU officials emphasized the necessity of honoring the Pretoria Peace Agreement and preventing further destabilization in the Horn of Africa.