The Ethiopian government on Friday (August 4) declared a six-month state of emergency in the Amhara region following clashes between the country's military and local Fano militiamen.

The Ethiopian government on Friday (August 4) declared a six-month state of emergency in the Amhara region following clashes between the country's military and local Fano militiamen. In a statement, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's office said, "It was found necessary to declare a state of emergency as it had become difficult to control this outrageous activity based on the regular legal system." Fighting has been going on for several days between the military and the Fano militia. Fano fighters backed the military during a two-year civil war in the neighbouring Tigray region that ended last November, but a simmering feud in recent months has burst into the open this week. On Thursday, the region's government asked federal authorities to take appropriate measures in response to the intensifying clashes. What powers does govt have during emergency period? According to a report by the news agency Reuters late Friday, the six-month emergency allows the Ethiopian government to impose curfews, restrict movement, and ban public gatherings. The government also has the power to ban the carrying of guns and other sharp objects, make arrests and conduct searches without warrants. In a statement posted on X, formerly called Twitter, the government communication service said that the government could also close or limit the movements of media outlets it deems to be operating contrary to the emergency orders. For now, the emergency order is only for Amhara but could be imposed in other areas if needed. Intense fighting reported near university, mobile internet suspended Two residents of Amhara's second-biggest city, Gondar said on Friday that intense fighting took place the previous day near the university. Speaking to Reuters, one of the residents said, "ENDF ( Ethiopian National Defence Force) first controlled the university, but they were pushed back by Fano. They were trying to advance to the centre of the city, but they couldn't." The second resident, who is also a local official, said the military pulled back from the university but did not say why. Education Minister Berhanu Nega told a news conference that 16,000 students in Gondar were unable to do their leaving exams on Thursday. A member from the Fano militia, meanwhile, said the militiamen were trying to encircle Amhara's capital Bahir Dar, adding they had captured Merawi, a town 30 kilometres south of Bahir Dar. Mobile internet was also suspended in Gondar. Meanwhile, Ethiopian Airlines cancelled flights to three of the four airports it flies to in Amhara, an airline spokesperson said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ethiopia: Govt declares six-month state of emergency in Amhara following clashes

Ethiopia said its troops were marching on the capital of the Tigray region on Tuesday after a deadline for rebel forces to surrender passed in a two-week conflict shaking the Horn of Africa and alarming the world.

“The final critical act of law enforcement will be done in the coming days,” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said.

Later on Tuesday, Abiy’s special task force on the Tigray conflict accused rebel forces of destroying bridges connecting the regional capital Mekelle with the rest of the country in attempts to hold back federal government forces.

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“Anxious about (our) advance, the junta has destroyed four bridges that lead to Mekelle,” it said, adding that the TPLF had also destroyed the section of a main road eastwards to Mekelle between the towns of Shire and Axum. Shire was under federal control, the task force reported earlier in the day.

“The TPLF junta will soon be held accountable for destroying this infrastructure and for crimes it has committed so far.”

There was no immediate TPLF comment on the accusations.

Abiy, Africa’s youngest leader and the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize winner, launched air strikes and a ground offensive on Nov. 4 after accusing ex-comrades and the local ruling party, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), of armed revolt.

Tigrayan leaders say Abiy, 44, who comes from Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group the Oromo, has persecuted and purged them from government and security posts since taking office in 2018.

Tigrayan forces have fired rockets into the neighbouring nation of Eritrea, accusing Eritrean forces of helping the Ethiopian government side, an allegation denied by Asmara.

But the rocket fire has escalated a conflict which has already killed hundreds - one diplomatic source said thousands - and sent about 30,000 refugees into Sudan.

“How could they kill their own brothers and sisters? This is not our custom,” Addis Ababa resident Fitawrari Million said of the Tigrayan leaders during a rally to honour federal soldiers.

The United Nations said a “full-scale humanitarian crisis” was unfolding. With communications largely down and media barred, Reuters could not independently verify assertions by either side nor the situation on the ground.

“People are coming out of Ethiopia really scared, afraid, with stories saying they have been fleeing heavy fighting and there’s no sign of the fighting stopping,” said Babar Baloch, spokesman for the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

With hundreds of thousands of Tigrayans dependent on food aid even before the conflict, suffering is worsening as hundreds of humanitarian workers are pulling out for their own safety.

Mark Lowcock, U.N. Undersecretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said the United Nations was pressing Abiy’s government to assure immediate and safe access to displaced people. “Humanitarian workers must be able to deliver assistance without fear of attack,” he said.

‘BRING JUNTA TO JUSTICE’

Abiy’s air force struck unspecified TPLF targets outside Mekelle on Monday.

Earlier on Tuesday, his task force said federal forces had “liberated” the Raya, Chercher, Gugufto and Mehoni localities on the eastern front, and Shire on the conflict’s western front.

Federal forces had also destroyed TPLF military bases in both areas and were now heading towards Mekelle, the statement said. “The force of the junta is now retreating, and the army is marching to bring the TPLF junta to justice.”

Tigray’s leaders have accused federal forces of knocking out a dam and a sugar factory as well as “mercilessly” attacking people in the region of more than 5 million.

The government denies targeting civilians.

In a sign the push towards Mekelle may not be going entirely to plan, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael told Reuters battles were still ongoing around the southern town of Alamata that federal troops said they seized the previous day.

After Amnesty International reported a massacre of scores of labourers, where it cited witnesses blaming TPLF forces, the United Nations human rights chief said war crimes may have been committed.

REGIONAL CLAMOUR

Governments around Europe and Africa are clamouring for talks and even the Nobel committee voiced concern in rare comment on a past laureate’s actions.

But Abiy has said he will only negotiate when rule of law is restored in Tigray, whose leaders are former military comrades whom he also partnered in government until 2018.

On Monday, his foreign minister went to Uganda and Kenya, while a Nigerian former president flew to Addis Ababa. Diplomats described a growing push for negotiations, but Ethiopia said it was simply explaining an internal conflict to outsiders.

The fighting could jeopardise the recent opening up of Ethiopia’s economy, stir ethnic bloodshed elsewhere around the vast nation of 115 million people, and tarnish the reputation of Abiy. He won his Nobel for pursuing peace with Eritrea and had drawn praise for opening up a repressive political system, though arrests and media curbs have tainted that of late.

Ethiopia said its troops were marching on the capital of the Tigray region on Tuesday after a deadline for rebel forces to surrender passed in a two-week conflict shaking the Horn of Africa and alarming the world.

Ethiopia said its troops were marching on the capital of the Tigray region on Tuesday after a deadline for rebel forces to surrender passed in a two-week conflict shaking the Horn of Africa and alarming the world. “The final critical act of law enforcement will be done in the coming days,” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. Later on Tuesday, Abiy’s special task force on the Tigray conflict accused rebel forces of destroying bridges connecting the regional capital Mekelle with the rest of the country in attempts to hold back federal government forces. “Anxious about (our) advance, the junta has destroyed four bridges that lead to Mekelle,” it said, adding that the TPLF had also destroyed the section of a main road eastwards to Mekelle between the towns of Shire and Axum. Shire was under federal control, the task force reported earlier in the day. “The TPLF junta will soon be held accountable for destroying this infrastructure and for crimes it has committed so far.” There was no immediate TPLF comment on the accusations. Abiy, Africa’s youngest leader and the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize winner, launched air strikes and a ground offensive on Nov. 4 after accusing ex-comrades and the local ruling party, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), of armed revolt. Tigrayan leaders say Abiy, 44, who comes from Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group the Oromo, has persecuted and purged them from government and security posts since taking office in 2018. Tigrayan forces have fired rockets into the neighbouring nation of Eritrea, accusing Eritrean forces of helping the Ethiopian government side, an allegation denied by Asmara. But the rocket fire has escalated a conflict which has already killed hundreds - one diplomatic source said thousands - and sent about 30,000 refugees into Sudan. “How could they kill their own brothers and sisters? This is not our custom,” Addis Ababa resident Fitawrari Million said of the Tigrayan leaders during a rally to honour federal soldiers. The United Nations said a “full-scale humanitarian crisis” was unfolding. With communications largely down and media barred, Reuters could not independently verify assertions by either side nor the situation on the ground. “People are coming out of Ethiopia really scared, afraid, with stories saying they have been fleeing heavy fighting and there’s no sign of the fighting stopping,” said Babar Baloch, spokesman for the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). With hundreds of thousands of Tigrayans dependent on food aid even before the conflict, suffering is worsening as hundreds of humanitarian workers are pulling out for their own safety. Mark Lowcock, U.N. Undersecretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said the United Nations was pressing Abiy’s government to assure immediate and safe access to displaced people. “Humanitarian workers must be able to deliver assistance without fear of attack,” he said. ‘BRING JUNTA TO JUSTICE’ Abiy’s air force struck unspecified TPLF targets outside Mekelle on Monday. Earlier on Tuesday, his task force said federal forces had “liberated” the Raya, Chercher, Gugufto and Mehoni localities on the eastern front, and Shire on the conflict’s western front. Federal forces had also destroyed TPLF military bases in both areas and were now heading towards Mekelle, the statement said. “The force of the junta is now retreating, and the army is marching to bring the TPLF junta to justice.” Tigray’s leaders have accused federal forces of knocking out a dam and a sugar factory as well as “mercilessly” attacking people in the region of more than 5 million. The government denies targeting civilians. In a sign the push towards Mekelle may not be going entirely to plan, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael told Reuters battles were still ongoing around the southern town of Alamata that federal troops said they seized the previous day. After Amnesty International reported a massacre of scores of labourers, where it cited witnesses blaming TPLF forces, the United Nations human rights chief said war crimes may have been committed. REGIONAL CLAMOUR Governments around Europe and Africa are clamouring for talks and even the Nobel committee voiced concern in rare comment on a past laureate’s actions. But Abiy has said he will only negotiate when rule of law is restored in Tigray, whose leaders are former military comrades whom he also partnered in government until 2018. On Monday, his foreign minister went to Uganda and Kenya, while a Nigerian former president flew to Addis Ababa. Diplomats described a growing push for negotiations, but Ethiopia said it was simply explaining an internal conflict to outsiders. The fighting could jeopardise the recent opening up of Ethiopia’s economy, stir ethnic bloodshed elsewhere around the vast nation of 115 million people, and tarnish the reputation of Abiy. He won his Nobel for pursuing peace with Eritrea and had drawn praise for opening up a repressive political system, though arrests and media curbs have tainted that of late.

Ethiopia says its troops marching on Tigrayan capital

Ethiopia's Nobel-winning leader said on Monday his nation was not descending into "chaos" despite a military offensive against the restive Tigray region where air strikes and fighting have killed at least half a dozen people in recent days.

The flare-up in the northern region bordering Eritrea and Sudan has brought fears of civil war in Africa's second most populous nation where ethnic conflict has killed hundreds since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took over in 2018.

"Ethiopia is grateful for friends expressing their concern. Our rule of law operation is aimed at guaranteeing peace and stability once and for all by bringing perpetrators of instability to justice," he tweeted on Monday.

"Concerns that Ethiopia will descend into chaos are unfounded and a result of not understanding our context deeply."

The 44-year-old, who is the continent's youngest leader, won the Nobel Peace Price last year for democratic reforms following years of repressive government and for making peace with Eritrea after a border war that had killed tens of thousands.

But the conflict in Tigray threatens national stability.

Last week Abiy, who comes from Ethiopia's largest ethnic group the Oromo, launched a military campaign saying forces loyal to Tigrayan leaders had attacked a military base and attempted to steal equipment.

The Tigrayans account for just 5% of Ethiopians but had, before Abiy's rule, dominated politics since rebels from their ethnic group toppled Marxist military rule in 1991.

Federal government fighter jets have in recent days been bombing targets including arms depots in Tigray. Aid workers on Sunday reported heavy fighting between troops loyal to each side, with at least six dead and dozens wounded.

A military official in Amhara told Reuters that clashes with Tigrayan forces in Kirakir, near the border between the regions of Tigray and Amhara, on Thursday had killed dozens on both sides. Reuters was unable to verify that.

BATTLE-HARDENED

Forces of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the region, are battle-hardened - from the 1998-2000 war with neighbouring Eritrea and from the guerrilla struggle to topple Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1991.

They and militia allies number up to 250,000 men and possess significant stocks of military hardware, according to the International Crisis Group thinktank.

Tigrayans say Abiy's government has unfairly targeted them as part of a crackdown on past rights abuses and corruption.

"These fascist have demonstrated they will show no mercy in destroying Tigrayans by launching more than 10 air strike attempts in Tigrayan cities," the TPLF said via Facebook.

"The people and government of Tigray are standing together," it added in the post on Monday.

Abiy, a former soldier who fought alongside Tigrayans against Eritrea, has so far defied calls from the United Nations and others to negotiate.

One risk is that Ethiopia's army could split along ethnic lines, with Tigrayans defecting to the regional force.

There are also fears of reprisals against Tigrayans elsewhere. Addis Ababa police said on Sunday the government had arrested 162 people in possession of firearms and ammunition, on suspicion of supporting the Tigrayan forces.

Furthermore, as Abiy's government mobilises troops to Tigray, other areas already roiled by ethnic violence could face a security vacuum, analysts say.

Thousands have had to flee their homes in the last two years in the nation of 110 million people.

Analysts do not believe the clashes will reawaken the Eritrea conflict given that President Isaias Afwerki and Abiy both see the Tigrayan leadership as enemies. ​

All-out war would damage Ethiopia's economy after years of steady growth. Abiy has pledged sweeping reforms to open lucrative sectors such as telecoms to foreign investment.

Ethiopia's Nobel-winning leader said on Monday his nation was not descending into "chaos" despite a military offensive against the restive Tigray region where air strikes and fighting have killed at least half a dozen people in recent days.

Ethiopia's Nobel-winning leader said on Monday his nation was not descending into "chaos" despite a military offensive against the restive Tigray region where air strikes and fighting have killed at least half a dozen people in recent days. The flare-up in the northern region bordering Eritrea and Sudan has brought fears of civil war in Africa's second most populous nation where ethnic conflict has killed hundreds since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took over in 2018. "Ethiopia is grateful for friends expressing their concern. Our rule of law operation is aimed at guaranteeing peace and stability once and for all by bringing perpetrators of instability to justice," he tweeted on Monday. "Concerns that Ethiopia will descend into chaos are unfounded and a result of not understanding our context deeply." The 44-year-old, who is the continent's youngest leader, won the Nobel Peace Price last year for democratic reforms following years of repressive government and for making peace with Eritrea after a border war that had killed tens of thousands. But the conflict in Tigray threatens national stability. Last week Abiy, who comes from Ethiopia's largest ethnic group the Oromo, launched a military campaign saying forces loyal to Tigrayan leaders had attacked a military base and attempted to steal equipment. The Tigrayans account for just 5% of Ethiopians but had, before Abiy's rule, dominated politics since rebels from their ethnic group toppled Marxist military rule in 1991. Federal government fighter jets have in recent days been bombing targets including arms depots in Tigray. Aid workers on Sunday reported heavy fighting between troops loyal to each side, with at least six dead and dozens wounded. A military official in Amhara told Reuters that clashes with Tigrayan forces in Kirakir, near the border between the regions of Tigray and Amhara, on Thursday had killed dozens on both sides. Reuters was unable to verify that. BATTLE-HARDENED Forces of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the region, are battle-hardened - from the 1998-2000 war with neighbouring Eritrea and from the guerrilla struggle to topple Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1991. They and militia allies number up to 250,000 men and possess significant stocks of military hardware, according to the International Crisis Group thinktank. Tigrayans say Abiy's government has unfairly targeted them as part of a crackdown on past rights abuses and corruption. "These fascist have demonstrated they will show no mercy in destroying Tigrayans by launching more than 10 air strike attempts in Tigrayan cities," the TPLF said via Facebook. "The people and government of Tigray are standing together," it added in the post on Monday. Abiy, a former soldier who fought alongside Tigrayans against Eritrea, has so far defied calls from the United Nations and others to negotiate. One risk is that Ethiopia's army could split along ethnic lines, with Tigrayans defecting to the regional force. There are also fears of reprisals against Tigrayans elsewhere. Addis Ababa police said on Sunday the government had arrested 162 people in possession of firearms and ammunition, on suspicion of supporting the Tigrayan forces. Furthermore, as Abiy's government mobilises troops to Tigray, other areas already roiled by ethnic violence could face a security vacuum, analysts say. Thousands have had to flee their homes in the last two years in the nation of 110 million people. Analysts do not believe the clashes will reawaken the Eritrea conflict given that President Isaias Afwerki and Abiy both see the Tigrayan leadership as enemies. All-out war would damage Ethiopia's economy after years of steady growth. Abiy has pledged sweeping reforms to open lucrative sectors such as telecoms to foreign investment.

Ethiopia downplays war fears while seeking to quell Tigray

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Friday that military operations launched in the northern region of Tigray had limited objectives, as calls rise for the country to step back from what could be a devastating war.

A long-running feud erupted into armed conflict this week between Addis Ababa and Tigray, whose leaders effectively ruled the country for three decades until Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed came to power. &nbsp;&nbsp;

UN chief Antonio Guterres called for the immediate de-escalation of tensions amid reports of heavy shelling and troop movements, while observers warned that an all-out war between the two powerful armies could be long and bloody.

Abiy, the winner of last year's Nobel Peace Prize, announced Wednesday he had ordered military operations in Tigray in response to an "attack" on a military camp by the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

The TPLF denies the attack occurred and accuses Abiy of concocting the story to justify deploying the military against it.

Abiy wrote on Twitter Friday that the military operations "have clear, limited and achievable objectives -- to restore the rule of law and the constitutional order, and to safeguard the rights of Ethiopians to lead a peaceful life wherever they are in the country".

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Operations by federal defence forces underway in Northern <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ethiopia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ethiopia</a> have clear, limited &amp; achievable objectives — to restore the rule of law &amp; the constitutional order, and to safeguard the rights of Ethiopians to lead a peaceful life wherever they are in the country.1/2
— Abiy Ahmed Ali 🇪🇹 (@AbiyAhmedAli) <a href="https://twitter.com/AbiyAhmedAli/status/1324632523255762944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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'Shameful, senseless'&nbsp;

His comments come after the military said Wednesday the country has "entered into a war it didn't anticipate" with the TPLF.

"This war is shameful, it is senseless," Ethiopia's deputy army chief Berhanu Jula said Thursday.

Abiy appeared to be seeking to play down the bellicose rhetoric, and responded to growing international calls for dialogue.

He said the government "patiently tried for several months to resolve differences with TPLF leadership peacefully; we tried mediation, reconciliation, dialogue".

"All failed (because) of TPLF criminal hubris and intransigence. In the last straw TPLF attacked the Northern Command based in Tigray."

'Deeply alarmed'&nbsp;

In a statement on Twitter, Guterres called for "an immediate de-escalation of tensions and a peaceful resolution to the dispute".

"I'm deeply alarmed over the situation in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. The stability of Ethiopia is important for the entire Horn of Africa region," he wrote.

Ethiopia's foreign ministry spokesman Dina Mufti said the government had explained to the diplomatic community that it "was provoked" into the current situation.&nbsp;

"Their reaction overall is that they want Ethiopia’s peace, stability and want this issue to be solved quickly. More or less we can say they expressed sympathy to our position."

Tigray president Debretsion Gebremichael said Thursday that fighting was taking place in western Tigray, and that federal troops were gathering on the border in neighbouring Amhara and Afar regions.

A diplomatic source said there were probably casualties on both sides after heavy fighting and artillery shelling Thursday on one of the main roads linking Tigray to Amhara.

An aid worker, speaking on condition of anonymity, said 25 wounded soldiers had been admitted to an Amhara health centre on Thursday, without specifying which side they were from.

Internet and phone connections in Tigray have been cut, making any tolls difficult to verify.

'Lengthy and bloody'

The International Crisis Group warned that unless the fighting was urgently halted, the conflict "will be devastating not just for the country but for the entire Horn of Africa".

It said that prolonged fighting could draw in neighbouring Eritrea, whose President Isaias Afwerki is close to Abiy and who is a "sworn enemy" of the TPLF which ruled Ethiopia when it fought a war with Eritrea.

And given Tigray has powerful military forces, with an estimated 250,000 troops, a war could be "lengthy and bloody" in Africa's second most populous country, it said.

It could also further destabilise the diverse nation, split into ethnic-based federal states, which has seen multiple outbreaks of ethnic violence in recent years.

"Immediate, concerted mediation -– local, regional and international -– is needed to avert a descent into a broader crisis," the ICG said.&nbsp;

The TPLF dominated politics in Ethiopia for nearly three decades before Abiy came to power in 2018 on the back of anti-government protests.&nbsp;

Under Abiy, Tigrayan leaders have complained of being unfairly targeted in corruption prosecutions, removed from top positions and broadly scapegoated for the country's woes.

The ICG said the descent into conflict was "sudden but predictable" after weeks of hostilities.

Tensions escalated when Tigray held its own elections in September, after Addis Ababa decided to postpone national polls due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Both sides then refused to recognise the rule of the other, and warlike rhetoric stepped up, with Tigray's president on Monday telling the region to prepare for war, prompting the federal parliament to seek to have the TPLF declared a terrorist group.&nbsp;

Addis Ababa has imposed a six-month state of emergency on Tigray.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Friday that military operations launched in the northern region of Tigray had limited objectives, as calls rise for the country to step back from what could be a devastating war.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Friday that military operations launched in the northern region of Tigray had limited objectives, as calls rise for the country to step back from what could be a devastating war. A long-running feud erupted into armed conflict this week between Addis Ababa and Tigray, whose leaders effectively ruled the country for three decades until Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed came to power. UN chief Antonio Guterres called for the immediate de-escalation of tensions amid reports of heavy shelling and troop movements, while observers warned that an all-out war between the two powerful armies could be long and bloody. Abiy, the winner of last year's Nobel Peace Prize, announced Wednesday he had ordered military operations in Tigray in response to an "attack" on a military camp by the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). The TPLF denies the attack occurred and accuses Abiy of concocting the story to justify deploying the military against it. Abiy wrote on Twitter Friday that the military operations "have clear, limited and achievable objectives -- to restore the rule of law and the constitutional order, and to safeguard the rights of Ethiopians to lead a peaceful life wherever they are in the country". Operations by federal defence forces underway in Northern #Ethiopia have clear, limited & achievable objectives — to restore the rule of law & the constitutional order, and to safeguard the rights of Ethiopians to lead a peaceful life wherever they are in the country.1/2 — Abiy Ahmed Ali 🇪🇹 (@AbiyAhmedAli) November 6, 2020 × 'Shameful, senseless' His comments come after the military said Wednesday the country has "entered into a war it didn't anticipate" with the TPLF. "This war is shameful, it is senseless," Ethiopia's deputy army chief Berhanu Jula said Thursday. Abiy appeared to be seeking to play down the bellicose rhetoric, and responded to growing international calls for dialogue. He said the government "patiently tried for several months to resolve differences with TPLF leadership peacefully; we tried mediation, reconciliation, dialogue". "All failed (because) of TPLF criminal hubris and intransigence. In the last straw TPLF attacked the Northern Command based in Tigray." 'Deeply alarmed' In a statement on Twitter, Guterres called for "an immediate de-escalation of tensions and a peaceful resolution to the dispute". "I'm deeply alarmed over the situation in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. The stability of Ethiopia is important for the entire Horn of Africa region," he wrote. Ethiopia's foreign ministry spokesman Dina Mufti said the government had explained to the diplomatic community that it "was provoked" into the current situation. "Their reaction overall is that they want Ethiopia’s peace, stability and want this issue to be solved quickly. More or less we can say they expressed sympathy to our position." Tigray president Debretsion Gebremichael said Thursday that fighting was taking place in western Tigray, and that federal troops were gathering on the border in neighbouring Amhara and Afar regions. A diplomatic source said there were probably casualties on both sides after heavy fighting and artillery shelling Thursday on one of the main roads linking Tigray to Amhara. An aid worker, speaking on condition of anonymity, said 25 wounded soldiers had been admitted to an Amhara health centre on Thursday, without specifying which side they were from. Internet and phone connections in Tigray have been cut, making any tolls difficult to verify. 'Lengthy and bloody' The International Crisis Group warned that unless the fighting was urgently halted, the conflict "will be devastating not just for the country but for the entire Horn of Africa". It said that prolonged fighting could draw in neighbouring Eritrea, whose President Isaias Afwerki is close to Abiy and who is a "sworn enemy" of the TPLF which ruled Ethiopia when it fought a war with Eritrea. And given Tigray has powerful military forces, with an estimated 250,000 troops, a war could be "lengthy and bloody" in Africa's second most populous country, it said. It could also further destabilise the diverse nation, split into ethnic-based federal states, which has seen multiple outbreaks of ethnic violence in recent years. "Immediate, concerted mediation -– local, regional and international -– is needed to avert a descent into a broader crisis," the ICG said. The TPLF dominated politics in Ethiopia for nearly three decades before Abiy came to power in 2018 on the back of anti-government protests. Under Abiy, Tigrayan leaders have complained of being unfairly targeted in corruption prosecutions, removed from top positions and broadly scapegoated for the country's woes. The ICG said the descent into conflict was "sudden but predictable" after weeks of hostilities. Tensions escalated when Tigray held its own elections in September, after Addis Ababa decided to postpone national polls due to the coronavirus pandemic. Both sides then refused to recognise the rule of the other, and warlike rhetoric stepped up, with Tigray's president on Monday telling the region to prepare for war, prompting the federal parliament to seek to have the TPLF declared a terrorist group. Addis Ababa has imposed a six-month state of emergency on Tigray.

Ethiopia says 'limited' aims to Tigray operation as alarm grows

Ethiopian lawmakers on Thursday endorsed a six-month state of emergency in the northern region of Tigray, a day after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered military operations there in an escalation of a long-running feud.&nbsp;

The move is part of an attempt by Abiy, winner of last year's Nobel Peace Prize, to assert federal control over a region whose ruling party has openly defied him for months and brands him as illegitimate.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-declares-state-of-emergency-in-tigray-region-340539" hreflang="en">Ethiopia declares state of emergency in Tigray region</a>

The lower house of parliament "unanimously approved" the state of emergency in a session Thursday morning, state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporate said.

According to the country's constitution, under a state of emergency the government has "all necessary power to protect the country's peace and sovereignty" and can suspend some "political and democratic rights".&nbsp;

A senior government official told AFP that in Tigray this could lead to a curfew, searches without warrants, transportation and communications restrictions and the detention of "any person that [officials] suspect is taking part in illegal activities that threaten the constitutional order".

The state of emergency could also be extended beyond Tigray if needed, the official said.&nbsp;

Ahead of Thursday's vote, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, the national rights body, pointed to the need to maintain key services and supplies for civilians.

Lawmakers "should in particular consider ensuring humanitarian access and support including for food, medicine and other essential civilian services to avoid a complete blockage of communication and transport facilities," it said.&nbsp;

TPLF denies 'attack'

Abiy announced the military operations in Tigray Wednesday morning.

He said the move came in response to an "attack" by the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), on a military camp there.&nbsp;

But a senior Tigrayan official told AFP Thursday that the "attack" never happened.

"No attack was launched by us," said the official, Wondimu Asamnew.&nbsp;

Speaking on state television Wednesday night, Abiy said there would be further operations in the "coming days".

"In general, when the operations are finished we will disclose them to the public," he said.&nbsp;

The government has not revealed a timeline or a clear military objective for the campaign, though a spokesman for a newly-formed crisis committee said Wednesday the goal was to "liberate" the region from the TPLF.&nbsp;

Abiy said the initial "attack" produced "many martyrs", but officials have not provided much information on subsequent military operations.

Fighting so far appears to have been largely concentrated in western Tigray, diplomats and aid workers said.

Wondimu, the TPLF official, reiterated the TPLF's claim that the military's Northern Command had broken with Abiy -- a claim dismissed as false by Abiy's office.

"The Northern Command has voluntarily started to cooperate with Tigray to save the country from an all-out civil war," Wondimu said.&nbsp;

He also said there were "no civilian casualties and only a few skirmishes with a few soldiers who have not respected the decision of their commanders".

"I am at work like anyone else in Mekele," he said, referring to the regional capital.&nbsp;

The fighting in Tigray has drawn expressions of concern from the UN, the US and the EU.

An official at the African Union told AFP Thursday that the body, headquartered in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, was reaching out to "all actors" to try to bring a swift end to the conflict.

"The African Union is engaged in shuttle diplomacy in the region and with all actors at the moment to try to find some sort of solution. But it's clearly very sensitive right now," the official said.

"I know that everybody is clamouring for public pronouncements. The situation is so dire that it's really about the doing. A solution is not going to be found on Twitter."&nbsp;

The TPLF dominated politics in Ethiopia for nearly three decades before Abiy came to power in 2018 on the strength of anti-government protests.&nbsp;

Under Abiy, Tigrayan leaders have complained of being unfairly targeted in corruption prosecutions, removed from top positions and broadly scapegoated for the country's woes.&nbsp;

In previous weeks, tensions had been rising over control of military assets in the region.

Ethiopian lawmakers on Thursday endorsed a six-month state of emergency in the northern region of Tigray, a day after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered military operations there in an escalation of a long-running feud.

Ethiopian lawmakers on Thursday endorsed a six-month state of emergency in the northern region of Tigray, a day after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered military operations there in an escalation of a long-running feud. The move is part of an attempt by Abiy, winner of last year's Nobel Peace Prize, to assert federal control over a region whose ruling party has openly defied him for months and brands him as illegitimate. Also read: Ethiopia declares state of emergency in Tigray region The lower house of parliament "unanimously approved" the state of emergency in a session Thursday morning, state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporate said. According to the country's constitution, under a state of emergency the government has "all necessary power to protect the country's peace and sovereignty" and can suspend some "political and democratic rights". A senior government official told AFP that in Tigray this could lead to a curfew, searches without warrants, transportation and communications restrictions and the detention of "any person that [officials] suspect is taking part in illegal activities that threaten the constitutional order". The state of emergency could also be extended beyond Tigray if needed, the official said. Ahead of Thursday's vote, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, the national rights body, pointed to the need to maintain key services and supplies for civilians. Lawmakers "should in particular consider ensuring humanitarian access and support including for food, medicine and other essential civilian services to avoid a complete blockage of communication and transport facilities," it said. TPLF denies 'attack' Abiy announced the military operations in Tigray Wednesday morning. He said the move came in response to an "attack" by the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), on a military camp there. But a senior Tigrayan official told AFP Thursday that the "attack" never happened. "No attack was launched by us," said the official, Wondimu Asamnew. Speaking on state television Wednesday night, Abiy said there would be further operations in the "coming days". "In general, when the operations are finished we will disclose them to the public," he said. The government has not revealed a timeline or a clear military objective for the campaign, though a spokesman for a newly-formed crisis committee said Wednesday the goal was to "liberate" the region from the TPLF. Abiy said the initial "attack" produced "many martyrs", but officials have not provided much information on subsequent military operations. Fighting so far appears to have been largely concentrated in western Tigray, diplomats and aid workers said. Wondimu, the TPLF official, reiterated the TPLF's claim that the military's Northern Command had broken with Abiy -- a claim dismissed as false by Abiy's office. "The Northern Command has voluntarily started to cooperate with Tigray to save the country from an all-out civil war," Wondimu said. He also said there were "no civilian casualties and only a few skirmishes with a few soldiers who have not respected the decision of their commanders". "I am at work like anyone else in Mekele," he said, referring to the regional capital. The fighting in Tigray has drawn expressions of concern from the UN, the US and the EU. An official at the African Union told AFP Thursday that the body, headquartered in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, was reaching out to "all actors" to try to bring a swift end to the conflict. "The African Union is engaged in shuttle diplomacy in the region and with all actors at the moment to try to find some sort of solution. But it's clearly very sensitive right now," the official said. "I know that everybody is clamouring for public pronouncements. The situation is so dire that it's really about the doing. A solution is not going to be found on Twitter." The TPLF dominated politics in Ethiopia for nearly three decades before Abiy came to power in 2018 on the strength of anti-government protests. Under Abiy, Tigrayan leaders have complained of being unfairly targeted in corruption prosecutions, removed from top positions and broadly scapegoated for the country's woes. In previous weeks, tensions had been rising over control of military assets in the region.

Ethiopia MPs back state of emergency in Tigray amid military campaign

Ethiopia's government Wednesday declared a state of emergency in Tigray after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered a military response to a deadly attack by the ruling party of the restive region on a federal troop camp.

A statement issued by Abiy's office said the Federal Council of Ministers made the declaration "recognising that illegal and violent activities within the National Regional State of Tigray are endangering the constitution and constitutional order."

In September, Tigray held regional elections in defiance of the federal government, which called the vote "illegal". The row has escalated in recent days with both sides accusing each other of plotting a military conflict.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's office said that early on Wednesday, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) tried to steal artillery and other equipment from federal forces stationed there.

"The last red line has been crossed with this morning's attacks and the federal government is therefore forced into a military confrontation," it said, adding that the aim was to prevent instability engulfing the country and region.

The prime minister's spokesman Billene Seyoum told Reuters later that military operations in Tigray had commenced, without elaborating.

Two diplomatic sources in Addis Ababa said heavy fighting, including artillery fire, had broken out in the northern region, which borders Eritrea.

Tigray's local government said the Northern Command of the federal military, which is stationed in the region, had defected to its side, a statement which Billene described as "false information".

The prime minister's office said the federal government had declared a six-month state of emergency in Tigray to be overseen by the chief of staff of the armed forces.

The internet was shut down in the region, internet access monitor NetBlocks said, confirming reports that authorities had shut down telephone and internet services.

Tigrayans dominated&nbsp;Ethiopian politics after guerrilla fighters ousted a Marxist dictator in 1991, but their influence has waned under Abiy. Last year, the TPLF quit his ruling coalition.

Since Abiy came to power in 2018, many senior Tigrayan officials have been detained, fired or sidelined, in what the federal government describes as a clamp-down on corruption but Tigrayans see as a means to quell dissent.

Tigray's population makes up 5% of&nbsp;Ethiopia's 109 million people, but it is wealthier and more influential than many other, larger regions.

Ethiopia's government Wednesday declared a state of emergency in Tigray after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered a military response to a deadly attack by the ruling party of the restive region on a federal troop camp.

Ethiopia's government Wednesday declared a state of emergency in Tigray after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered a military response to a deadly attack by the ruling party of the restive region on a federal troop camp. A statement issued by Abiy's office said the Federal Council of Ministers made the declaration "recognising that illegal and violent activities within the National Regional State of Tigray are endangering the constitution and constitutional order." In September, Tigray held regional elections in defiance of the federal government, which called the vote "illegal". The row has escalated in recent days with both sides accusing each other of plotting a military conflict. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's office said that early on Wednesday, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) tried to steal artillery and other equipment from federal forces stationed there. "The last red line has been crossed with this morning's attacks and the federal government is therefore forced into a military confrontation," it said, adding that the aim was to prevent instability engulfing the country and region. The prime minister's spokesman Billene Seyoum told Reuters later that military operations in Tigray had commenced, without elaborating. Two diplomatic sources in Addis Ababa said heavy fighting, including artillery fire, had broken out in the northern region, which borders Eritrea. Tigray's local government said the Northern Command of the federal military, which is stationed in the region, had defected to its side, a statement which Billene described as "false information". The prime minister's office said the federal government had declared a six-month state of emergency in Tigray to be overseen by the chief of staff of the armed forces. The internet was shut down in the region, internet access monitor NetBlocks said, confirming reports that authorities had shut down telephone and internet services. Tigrayans dominated Ethiopian politics after guerrilla fighters ousted a Marxist dictator in 1991, but their influence has waned under Abiy. Last year, the TPLF quit his ruling coalition. Since Abiy came to power in 2018, many senior Tigrayan officials have been detained, fired or sidelined, in what the federal government describes as a clamp-down on corruption but Tigrayans see as a means to quell dissent. Tigray's population makes up 5% of Ethiopia's 109 million people, but it is wealthier and more influential than many other, larger regions.

Ethiopia declares state of emergency in Tigray region

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A Russian propaganda arm oversaw a criminal and espionage conspiracy to tamper in the 2016 US&nbsp;presidential campaign to support Donald Trump and disparage Hillary Clinton, said an indictment released on Friday.

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Ethiopia declared a state of emergency on Friday, a move capping a tumultuous week that saw the prime minister resign, a strike in the country`s largest region and a massive prisoner amnesty.

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Magnitude 7.2 quake hits Mexico, buildings sway in capital A 7.2 magnitude quake shook southern Mexico on Friday, a prolonged rumble that rocked buildings across the capital Mexico City. US charges 13 Russians with 2016 presidential election tampering to boost Donald Trump A Russian propaganda arm oversaw a criminal and espionage conspiracy to tamper in the 2016 US presidential campaign to support Donald Trump and disparage Hillary Clinton, said an indictment released on Friday. Sri Lanka Prime Minister plans reshuffle in wake of local election drubbing Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Friday he planned to stay in office and reshuffle his cabinet in the wake of a stinging loss in local elections for both parties in the ruling coalition. Ethiopia declares state of emergency after PM resigns Ethiopia declared a state of emergency on Friday, a move capping a tumultuous week that saw the prime minister resign, a strike in the country`s largest region and a massive prisoner amnesty. Roger Federer becomes oldest world No 1 in tennis history Roger Federer became the oldest world number one on Friday as he defeated his opponent to enter the semi-final of the ABN Amro World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam.

WION Morning News Brief, February 17, 2018

Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn declared an emergency for six months in the country saying that it was &#39;vital&#39; to restore normalcy in the country which has been rocked by anti-government protests since the last few months. He also said that the emergency would come into effect from October 8.

&quot;A state of emergency has been declared because the situation posed a threat against the people of the country. The state of emergency is vital. It is essential to restore peace and stability over a short period of time,&quot; Hailemariam said on state-run television.

He also said that his government, the Ethiopian People&#39;s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) coalition, was considering reforms and would hold talks with opposition parties.

Ethiopia is facing its biggest anti-governemnt protests in a decade led by the Oromo and the Amhara communities, which constitute 60% of the population, are unhappy with the excessive power wielded by the minority Tigrean community in the government and security forces.

The protests intensified after 55 people were killed in a stampede after police fired tear-gas at anti-government protesters during a festival in the Oromo region. One of Africa&#39;s fastest growing economies, Ethiopia has also been criticised for the authoritarian approach to development and for displacement of farmers to make way for commercial agriculture.

Last week, protesters torched vehicles and damaged almost a dozen mostly foreign-owned factories and flower farms, protesting against the land grab policy of the government.

More than 450 the number of people have been killed in the unrest since 2015, say rights groups and opponents. A US researcher was killed on Tuesday when her car was attacked by stone-throwers near Addis Ababa.

The government, however, claims that the toll has been inflated.

(WION with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A wave of unrest has gripped the country over land grabs and rights

Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn declared an emergency for six months in the country saying that it was 'vital' to restore normalcy in the country which has been rocked by anti-government protests since the last few months. He also said that the emergency would come into effect from October 8. "A state of emergency has been declared because the situation posed a threat against the people of the country. The state of emergency is vital. It is essential to restore peace and stability over a short period of time," Hailemariam said on state-run television. He also said that his government, the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) coalition, was considering reforms and would hold talks with opposition parties. Ethiopia is facing its biggest anti-governemnt protests in a decade led by the Oromo and the Amhara communities, which constitute 60% of the population, are unhappy with the excessive power wielded by the minority Tigrean community in the government and security forces. The protests intensified after 55 people were killed in a stampede after police fired tear-gas at anti-government protesters during a festival in the Oromo region. One of Africa's fastest growing economies, Ethiopia has also been criticised for the authoritarian approach to development and for displacement of farmers to make way for commercial agriculture. Last week, protesters torched vehicles and damaged almost a dozen mostly foreign-owned factories and flower farms, protesting against the land grab policy of the government. More than 450 the number of people have been killed in the unrest since 2015, say rights groups and opponents. A US researcher was killed on Tuesday when her car was attacked by stone-throwers near Addis Ababa. The government, however, claims that the toll has been inflated. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Ethiopia declares 6-month emergency to 'restore order' after anti-government protests