Ethiopia is offering a 10 million birr ($260,000) reward in exchange of information that could help locate leaders of the Tigray region's ruling party TPLF.

Ethiopia offers reward for information on TPLF leaders

Ethiopia on Friday offered a reward in exchange for information that could help locate leaders of the Tigray region's ruling party, who have been the target of a major military offensive.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, last year's Nobel Peace Prize winner, announced the military campaign against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) on November 4, saying it came in response to TPLF-orchestrated attacks on federal army camps.

Abiy declared victory after federal forces took the regional capital Mekele in late November, but the UN says clashes persist in the region and TPLF leaders remain on the run.

The military will pay 10 million Ethiopian birr (roughly $250,000 / 205,000 euros) to "any person who knows the exact location of the TPLF junta leadership", the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation quoted Lieutenant General Asrat Denero, head of the military's community information department, as saying Friday.

Asrat also provided a hotline where citizens could give tips.&nbsp;

Two days after Mekele fell, Abiy told lawmakers that federal forces were monitoring TPLF leaders closely from "the situation room" and would apprehend them soon.

He said TPLF leaders had fled west of the city, though Debretsion Gebremichael, president of Tigray when the conflict started, told AFP at the time that Abiy had the location wrong.

Debretsion and other TPLF leaders have been unreachable for nearly two weeks.

On November 13 federal police announced arrest warrants for Debretsion and 63 other TPLF leaders.

It was not immediately clear Friday if the reward offer applied to all of them.

The fighting in Tigray has left thousands dead, according to the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank, and sent tens of thousands of refugees streaming across the border into Sudan.

The UN has been lobbying -- so far unsuccessfully -- for unfettered access to the region to provide humanitarian assistance.

On Thursday it announced a $35.6 million emergency aid package for civilians caught up in the conflict.

Ethiopia on Friday offered a reward in exchange for information that could help locate leaders of the Tigray region's ruling party, who have been the target of a major military offensive.

Ethiopia on Friday offered a reward in exchange for information that could help locate leaders of the Tigray region's ruling party, who have been the target of a major military offensive. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, last year's Nobel Peace Prize winner, announced the military campaign against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) on November 4, saying it came in response to TPLF-orchestrated attacks on federal army camps. Abiy declared victory after federal forces took the regional capital Mekele in late November, but the UN says clashes persist in the region and TPLF leaders remain on the run. The military will pay 10 million Ethiopian birr (roughly $250,000 / 205,000 euros) to "any person who knows the exact location of the TPLF junta leadership", the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation quoted Lieutenant General Asrat Denero, head of the military's community information department, as saying Friday. Asrat also provided a hotline where citizens could give tips. Two days after Mekele fell, Abiy told lawmakers that federal forces were monitoring TPLF leaders closely from "the situation room" and would apprehend them soon. He said TPLF leaders had fled west of the city, though Debretsion Gebremichael, president of Tigray when the conflict started, told AFP at the time that Abiy had the location wrong. Debretsion and other TPLF leaders have been unreachable for nearly two weeks. On November 13 federal police announced arrest warrants for Debretsion and 63 other TPLF leaders. It was not immediately clear Friday if the reward offer applied to all of them. The fighting in Tigray has left thousands dead, according to the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank, and sent tens of thousands of refugees streaming across the border into Sudan. The UN has been lobbying -- so far unsuccessfully -- for unfettered access to the region to provide humanitarian assistance. On Thursday it announced a $35.6 million emergency aid package for civilians caught up in the conflict.

Ethiopia offers reward for help finding dissident Tigray leaders

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Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok visited Ethiopia on 13 December, with three senior Sudan government officials reporting that it had a broker's offer for a cease-fire in its northern Tigray region.

Sudanese PM Hamdok made a brief visit to Ethiopia to discuss Tigray conflict

Ethiopia's government said on Friday it was returning Eritrean refugees to camps they had fled in the northern region of Tigray, a move that alarmed the United Nations refugee agency after a month-long conflict that is believed to have killed thousands of people.

The United Nations and other aid agencies say they have been denied access to some 96,000 refugees in Tigray since fighting erupted on Nov. 4 between the government and a rebellious regional force. They are concerned about food and security in the camps, which they have not been permitted to visit since the conflict broke out.

The government says it has now defeated forces loyal to the region's former ruling Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), and it is safe for refugees who fled to the capital Addis Ababa to return to Tigray.

"A large number of misinformed refugees are moving out in an irregular manner," the government said in a statement on Friday.

"The government is safely returning those refugees to their respective camps," the statement said, adding that food was being transported to the camps.

TPLF leaders say they are fighting back on various fronts. Claims by all sides in the conflict are near-impossible to verify because most communications to Tigray are down and the government tightly controls access.

FRANTIC CALLS

Reuters received frantic calls from refugees in the capital who had been told they would be bussed back to Tigray but feared they were being taken back to Eritrea - the neighbouring country they originally fled.

"Please come, please come, the buses are here!" one woman yelled as children wept in the background.

Another woman said Eritreans faced mounting hostility from Tigrayans who accuse Eritrea of sending troops into&nbsp;Ethiopia&nbsp;to help Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government battle the TPLF.

Both countries deny this, although the U.S. State Department said on Thursday it believes reports of Eritrean military involvement in the conflict in&nbsp;Ethiopia&nbsp;are "credible".

"Some Tigrayan people beat up my husband," the refugee said. "People there were saying – 'your country is coming here and attacking us. So you - we will kill you too.' We were getting so scared."

Refugees may be facing additional dangers.

TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael said in text messages to Reuters this month that Eritrean soldiers had raided two camps in Tigray and abducted some residents, but provided no evidence. Eritrea denies this.

The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said on Friday the agency had received similar reports.

"Over the last month we have received an overwhelming number of disturbing reports of Eritrean refugees in Tigray being killed, abducted and forcibly returned to Eritrea. If confirmed, these actions would constitute a major violation of international law," he said in a statement.

The presence of Eritrean troops on&nbsp;Ethiopian soil would alarm Western allies and risk further inflaming the conflict.

Eritrea has long faced accusations of large scale rights abuses. It accuses Western powers of smear campaigns and luring Eritreans abroad, which they deny.

France, Britain, Germany, the United States, Estonia and Belgium plan to raise the humanitarian situation in Tigray during a closed-door U.N. Security Council meeting Monday and have asked for a U.N. aid official to brief, diplomats said.

FOOD FOR REFUGEES

There are four main camps for Eritrean refugees in Tigray - Shimelba, Hitsats, Mai-Ayni and Adi Harush.

The UNHCR was not informed of any planned relocation of refugees in&nbsp;Ethiopia, Babar Baloch, a UNHCR spokesman, told reporters in Geneva. He called the reports "alarming."

He added, "While we cannot speculate at this time, any refoulement would be absolutely unacceptable.” Refoulement means forcing refugees to return to the country they fled from.

Ato Addisu, deputy head of&nbsp;Ethiopia's state-run Agency for Refugee and Returnee Affairs, said, "A return to Eritrea would never happen unless they request by themselves – this is against international law".

Around 580 refugees were on the buses to Tigray, he told Reuters.

The prime minister's office dismissed concerns that the war was preventing aid reaching civilians.

"Suggestions that humanitarian assistance is impeded due to active military combat ... within the Tigray region is untrue and undermines ... work to stabilise the region," it said in a statement on Friday.

Ethiopia's government said on Friday it was returning Eritrean refugees to camps they had fled in the northern region of Tigray, a move that alarmed the United Nations refugee agency after a month-long conflict that is believed to have killed thousands of people.

Ethiopia's government said on Friday it was returning Eritrean refugees to camps they had fled in the northern region of Tigray, a move that alarmed the United Nations refugee agency after a month-long conflict that is believed to have killed thousands of people. The United Nations and other aid agencies say they have been denied access to some 96,000 refugees in Tigray since fighting erupted on Nov. 4 between the government and a rebellious regional force. They are concerned about food and security in the camps, which they have not been permitted to visit since the conflict broke out. The government says it has now defeated forces loyal to the region's former ruling Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), and it is safe for refugees who fled to the capital Addis Ababa to return to Tigray. "A large number of misinformed refugees are moving out in an irregular manner," the government said in a statement on Friday. "The government is safely returning those refugees to their respective camps," the statement said, adding that food was being transported to the camps. TPLF leaders say they are fighting back on various fronts. Claims by all sides in the conflict are near-impossible to verify because most communications to Tigray are down and the government tightly controls access. FRANTIC CALLS Reuters received frantic calls from refugees in the capital who had been told they would be bussed back to Tigray but feared they were being taken back to Eritrea - the neighbouring country they originally fled. "Please come, please come, the buses are here!" one woman yelled as children wept in the background. Another woman said Eritreans faced mounting hostility from Tigrayans who accuse Eritrea of sending troops into Ethiopia to help Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government battle the TPLF. Both countries deny this, although the U.S. State Department said on Thursday it believes reports of Eritrean military involvement in the conflict in Ethiopia are "credible". "Some Tigrayan people beat up my husband," the refugee said. "People there were saying – 'your country is coming here and attacking us. So you - we will kill you too.' We were getting so scared." Refugees may be facing additional dangers. TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael said in text messages to Reuters this month that Eritrean soldiers had raided two camps in Tigray and abducted some residents, but provided no evidence. Eritrea denies this. The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said on Friday the agency had received similar reports. "Over the last month we have received an overwhelming number of disturbing reports of Eritrean refugees in Tigray being killed, abducted and forcibly returned to Eritrea. If confirmed, these actions would constitute a major violation of international law," he said in a statement. The presence of Eritrean troops on Ethiopian soil would alarm Western allies and risk further inflaming the conflict. Eritrea has long faced accusations of large scale rights abuses. It accuses Western powers of smear campaigns and luring Eritreans abroad, which they deny. France, Britain, Germany, the United States, Estonia and Belgium plan to raise the humanitarian situation in Tigray during a closed-door U.N. Security Council meeting Monday and have asked for a U.N. aid official to brief, diplomats said. FOOD FOR REFUGEES There are four main camps for Eritrean refugees in Tigray - Shimelba, Hitsats, Mai-Ayni and Adi Harush. The UNHCR was not informed of any planned relocation of refugees in Ethiopia, Babar Baloch, a UNHCR spokesman, told reporters in Geneva. He called the reports "alarming." He added, "While we cannot speculate at this time, any refoulement would be absolutely unacceptable.” Refoulement means forcing refugees to return to the country they fled from. Ato Addisu, deputy head of Ethiopia's state-run Agency for Refugee and Returnee Affairs, said, "A return to Eritrea would never happen unless they request by themselves – this is against international law". Around 580 refugees were on the buses to Tigray, he told Reuters. The prime minister's office dismissed concerns that the war was preventing aid reaching civilians. "Suggestions that humanitarian assistance is impeded due to active military combat ... within the Tigray region is untrue and undermines ... work to stabilise the region," it said in a statement on Friday.

Ethiopia returning Eritrean refugees to Tigray camps; UN shows concern

First international aid convoy has reached the capital of Ethiopia's war-torn Tigray region, reported AFP quoting International Committee of the Red Cross. Tigray region has seen intense conflict as Ethiopian forces have clashed with those in Tigray for control of the region.

Seven Red Cross trucks brought medicines and medical equipment for 400 wounded as well as relief supplies.

"It is the first international aid to arrive in Mekele since fighting erupted in Tigray more than one month ago," the Geneva-based ICRC said.

Ethiopian government had imposed a communication blackout as a result of which it was hard to accurately ascertain the situation inside Tigray during the conflict. International agencies including the United Nations had repeatedly underlined the humanitarian crisis in Tigray which saw an exodus of thousands of civilians into neighbouring regions and even neighbouring countries.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-returning-eritrean-refugees-to-tigray-camps-un-shows-concern-349234">Ethiopia returning Eritrean refugees to Tigray camps; UN shows concern</a>

Ethiopia's current Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, a Nobel peace prize recipient last year, has stressed that the humanitarian aid program in the Tigray region will be led by his government. There have been numerous call from around the world for Ethiopian government to step-up its efforts to help civilians many of whom are facing shortage of food, water and medicines.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

First international aid convoy has reached the capital of Ethiopia's war-torn Tigray region, reported AFP quoting International Committee of the Red Cross. Tigray region has seen intense conflict as Ethiopian forces have clashed with those in Tigray for control of the region.

First international aid convoy has reached the capital of Ethiopia's war-torn Tigray region, reported AFP quoting International Committee of the Red Cross. Tigray region has seen intense conflict as Ethiopian forces have clashed with those in Tigray for control of the region. Seven Red Cross trucks brought medicines and medical equipment for 400 wounded as well as relief supplies. "It is the first international aid to arrive in Mekele since fighting erupted in Tigray more than one month ago," the Geneva-based ICRC said. Ethiopian government had imposed a communication blackout as a result of which it was hard to accurately ascertain the situation inside Tigray during the conflict. International agencies including the United Nations had repeatedly underlined the humanitarian crisis in Tigray which saw an exodus of thousands of civilians into neighbouring regions and even neighbouring countries. Also Read | Ethiopia returning Eritrean refugees to Tigray camps; UN shows concern Ethiopia's current Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, a Nobel peace prize recipient last year, has stressed that the humanitarian aid program in the Tigray region will be led by his government. There have been numerous call from around the world for Ethiopian government to step-up its efforts to help civilians many of whom are facing shortage of food, water and medicines. (With AFP inputs)

First international aid convoy arrives in Tigray: Report 

The United States has said it believes reports of Eritrean military involvement in the conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region are "credible."

A spokesperson for the US State Department further called on any Eritrean soldiers there to pull out.

"We are aware of credible reports of Eritrean military involvement in Tigray and view this as a grave development. We urge that any such troops be withdrawn immediately," the spokesperson said.

The State Department spokesperson also noted reports of human rights abuses in Tigray.

"We are also aware of reports of human rights violations and abuses in the region. All parties must respect human rights and international humanitarian law," the spokesperson said.

"We and other international partners continue to urge an independent investigation of the reports and accountability for those found responsible."

Ethiopia has denied Eritrea entered the conflict, though Abiy did say last week that some government troops retreated into Eritrea early in the conflict and were given assistance. Eritrea's Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has called claims it entered the conflict "propaganda."

The US government believing Eritrean soldiers had crossed into Ethiopian territory, according to Reuters, is effectively helping Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government battle a rebellious northern force.

Abiy won a Nobel Peace Prize last year for making peace with Eritrea, but the presence of Eritrean troops on Ethiopian soil would alarm Western allies and risk further inflaming the conflict.

Eritrea has for years faced accusations of large scale rights abuses, including jailing opponents and forcing citizens into lengthy military or government service. It accuses Western powers of smear campaigns and luring Eritreans abroad, which they deny.

Ethiopia hosts the African Union, its security services work with Western allies, and its troops serve in peacekeeping missions in South Sudan and Somalia.

Abiy and Eritrea's President Isaias Afwerki signed a peace pact ending two decades of hostilities in 2018 and now regard the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) as a mutual foe.

Reuters, citing diplomatic sources, reported on Tuesday that Eritrean troops were believed to have entered Ethiopia in mid-November through three northern border towns: Zalambessa, Rama and Badme.

(with inputs)

The United States has said it believes reports of Eritrean military involvement in the conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region are "credible." A spokesperson for the US State Department further called on any Eritrean soldiers there to pull out.

The United States has said it believes reports of Eritrean military involvement in the conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region are "credible." A spokesperson for the US State Department further called on any Eritrean soldiers there to pull out. "We are aware of credible reports of Eritrean military involvement in Tigray and view this as a grave development. We urge that any such troops be withdrawn immediately," the spokesperson said. The State Department spokesperson also noted reports of human rights abuses in Tigray. "We are also aware of reports of human rights violations and abuses in the region. All parties must respect human rights and international humanitarian law," the spokesperson said. "We and other international partners continue to urge an independent investigation of the reports and accountability for those found responsible." Ethiopia has denied Eritrea entered the conflict, though Abiy did say last week that some government troops retreated into Eritrea early in the conflict and were given assistance. Eritrea's Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has called claims it entered the conflict "propaganda." The US government believing Eritrean soldiers had crossed into Ethiopian territory, according to Reuters, is effectively helping Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government battle a rebellious northern force. Abiy won a Nobel Peace Prize last year for making peace with Eritrea, but the presence of Eritrean troops on Ethiopian soil would alarm Western allies and risk further inflaming the conflict. Eritrea has for years faced accusations of large scale rights abuses, including jailing opponents and forcing citizens into lengthy military or government service. It accuses Western powers of smear campaigns and luring Eritreans abroad, which they deny. Ethiopia hosts the African Union, its security services work with Western allies, and its troops serve in peacekeeping missions in South Sudan and Somalia. Abiy and Eritrea's President Isaias Afwerki signed a peace pact ending two decades of hostilities in 2018 and now regard the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) as a mutual foe. Reuters, citing diplomatic sources, reported on Tuesday that Eritrean troops were believed to have entered Ethiopia in mid-November through three northern border towns: Zalambessa, Rama and Badme. (with inputs)

US believes in reports of involvement of Eritrean troops in Tigray conflict

Ethiopia's prime minister shifted focus away from war on Wednesday, opening a cross-border highway to Kenya at the opposite end of his country, while the United Nations voiced alarm at continuing fighting in the northern Tigray region.

Abiy Ahmed cut the ribbon on a mega-highway linking south Ethiopia with Kenya's Indian Ocean port of Mombasa, alongside Kenyan counterpart President Uhuru Kenyatta, reflecting Ethiopian aspirations to become a regional powerhouse.

"Just like the infrastructure, we should work on peace and security," he said at the border town of Moyale, refraining from mentioning Tigray. "Peace is a foundation for everything we are aspiring to transform (in) the life our people."

War since Nov. 4 between Ethiopia's federal forces and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) is thought to have killed thousands and displaced more than 950,000 people, according to U.N. estimates, some 50,000 of them into Sudan.

The United Nations agreed a deal with the government last week for safe access to Tigray, home to more than 5 million people, of whom 600,000 needed food aid even before the war.

But the shooting at, and then detention of, a U.N. security team on its way to a refugee camp by Ethiopian federal forces on Sunday highlighted difficulties implementing that deal. The government said the U.N. team had defied two checkpoints.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged the problems and said Ethiopia and the United Nations had now agreed on joint missions to assess humanitarian needs.

He said the aim was "to make sure that there is full access to the whole of the territory and full capacity to start a humanitarian operation based on real needs, and without any kind of discrimination."

The conflict may also hurt an economy that had been soaring, albeit from a low base, becoming the world's fastest growing in 2017, driven by agricultural exports and heavy infrastructure spending it hoped would drive a manufacturing boom.

Ethiopia was for years trying to position itself as an emerging industrial hub that would draw its 115 million population - the second largest in Africa - off subsistence farms and into factories.

For more than a decade, the government poured billions of dollars into hydro-electric dams, industrial parks, railways and highways. Then when Abiy took power in 2018, he began opening up sectors like telecoms to private investment.

Those aspirations are now at risk. Instability that began even before the Tigray conflict - due to ethnic clashes and other problems - may scare off investors already skittish about the impact of COVID-19 and rapidly-rising Ethiopian government debt. Foreign textiles firms worry about existing investments.

'WORRYING, VOLATILE'

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said in Geneva that events in Tigray were still "worrying and volatile" and called for civilians to be protected.

"Fighting continues between federal forces and the TPLF, and affiliated militias on both sides," she told reporters, citing clashes near the towns of Mekelle, Sherero, Axum and Abiy Addi.

A government spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment. TPLF leaders could not be reached.

Guterres said the United Nations had information about "sporadic fighting in different areas of the country," but also that in the past few days there had been "an increase of security and control." He said he could not "fully confirm" the information.

Abiy declared victory after capturing the regional capital Mekelle, but TPLF leaders say their combat continues from surrounding hills.

About 1,000 federal soldiers held by the TPLF, some of whom were abducted on Nov. 3, the day before the war erupted, were freed in an operation by the federal army and police, state-controlled media said late on Wednesday, without elaborating.

Both sides' claims are difficult to check, as most communications in Tigray are down and access is severely restricted. Journalists need a permit to travel outside the capital Addis Ababa.

The United States believes Eritrean soldiers have crossed into Ethiopia to help Abiy's government, despite denials from both nations, a U.S. government source and five regional diplomats told Reuters.

Abiy and Eritrea's President Isaias Afwerki signed a peace pact ending two decades of hostilities in 2018 and now regard the TPLF as a mutual foe.

"We have no proof of the presence of Eritrean troops inside Ethiopia," said Guterres. "I confronted the prime minister with that question, and he guaranteed to me that they have not entered Tigrayan territory."

Ethiopia's prime minister shifted focus away from war on Wednesday, opening a cross-border highway to Kenya at the opposite end of his country, while the United Nations voiced alarm at continuing fighting in the northern Tigray region.

Ethiopia's prime minister shifted focus away from war on Wednesday, opening a cross-border highway to Kenya at the opposite end of his country, while the United Nations voiced alarm at continuing fighting in the northern Tigray region. Abiy Ahmed cut the ribbon on a mega-highway linking south Ethiopia with Kenya's Indian Ocean port of Mombasa, alongside Kenyan counterpart President Uhuru Kenyatta, reflecting Ethiopian aspirations to become a regional powerhouse. "Just like the infrastructure, we should work on peace and security," he said at the border town of Moyale, refraining from mentioning Tigray. "Peace is a foundation for everything we are aspiring to transform (in) the life our people." War since Nov. 4 between Ethiopia's federal forces and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) is thought to have killed thousands and displaced more than 950,000 people, according to U.N. estimates, some 50,000 of them into Sudan. The United Nations agreed a deal with the government last week for safe access to Tigray, home to more than 5 million people, of whom 600,000 needed food aid even before the war. But the shooting at, and then detention of, a U.N. security team on its way to a refugee camp by Ethiopian federal forces on Sunday highlighted difficulties implementing that deal. The government said the U.N. team had defied two checkpoints. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged the problems and said Ethiopia and the United Nations had now agreed on joint missions to assess humanitarian needs. He said the aim was "to make sure that there is full access to the whole of the territory and full capacity to start a humanitarian operation based on real needs, and without any kind of discrimination." The conflict may also hurt an economy that had been soaring, albeit from a low base, becoming the world's fastest growing in 2017, driven by agricultural exports and heavy infrastructure spending it hoped would drive a manufacturing boom. Ethiopia was for years trying to position itself as an emerging industrial hub that would draw its 115 million population - the second largest in Africa - off subsistence farms and into factories. For more than a decade, the government poured billions of dollars into hydro-electric dams, industrial parks, railways and highways. Then when Abiy took power in 2018, he began opening up sectors like telecoms to private investment. Those aspirations are now at risk. Instability that began even before the Tigray conflict - due to ethnic clashes and other problems - may scare off investors already skittish about the impact of COVID-19 and rapidly-rising Ethiopian government debt. Foreign textiles firms worry about existing investments. 'WORRYING, VOLATILE' U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said in Geneva that events in Tigray were still "worrying and volatile" and called for civilians to be protected. "Fighting continues between federal forces and the TPLF, and affiliated militias on both sides," she told reporters, citing clashes near the towns of Mekelle, Sherero, Axum and Abiy Addi. A government spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment. TPLF leaders could not be reached. Guterres said the United Nations had information about "sporadic fighting in different areas of the country," but also that in the past few days there had been "an increase of security and control." He said he could not "fully confirm" the information. Abiy declared victory after capturing the regional capital Mekelle, but TPLF leaders say their combat continues from surrounding hills. About 1,000 federal soldiers held by the TPLF, some of whom were abducted on Nov. 3, the day before the war erupted, were freed in an operation by the federal army and police, state-controlled media said late on Wednesday, without elaborating. Both sides' claims are difficult to check, as most communications in Tigray are down and access is severely restricted. Journalists need a permit to travel outside the capital Addis Ababa. The United States believes Eritrean soldiers have crossed into Ethiopia to help Abiy's government, despite denials from both nations, a U.S. government source and five regional diplomats told Reuters. Abiy and Eritrea's President Isaias Afwerki signed a peace pact ending two decades of hostilities in 2018 and now regard the TPLF as a mutual foe. "We have no proof of the presence of Eritrean troops inside Ethiopia," said Guterres. "I confronted the prime minister with that question, and he guaranteed to me that they have not entered Tigrayan territory."

Ethiopia shifts focus from war to economy, UN worries about Tigray

Ethiopia's Federal government is inching closer to victory in Tigray. Has Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed enlisted the help of a former foe to win the war?

Gravitas: Have Eritrean troops joined the Ethiopia conflict?

A United Nations team visiting refugees in Ethiopia`s war-hit Tigray region had failed to stop at two checkpoints when it was shot at over the weekend, the government said on Tuesday, proclaiming it did not need a "baby-sitter".

The U.N. security team was seeking access to the Shimelba camp for Eritrean refugees when they were fired at on Sunday. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said there were four people in the U.N. team assessing roads in the area for aid deliveries.

"These are alarming reports and we are engaging at the highest level with the federal government to express our concern and avoid any such incidents in the future," said Dujarric, adding that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had spoken with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Monday.

Abiy`s army has battled the Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF) in the northern region since Nov. 4.

Thousands are feared dead and the U.N. estimates that more than 950,000 people have been displaced by the conflict, around 50,000 of them into neighbouring Sudan. The Ethiopian government did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the U.N. estimate.

Redwan Hussein, spokesman for the Ethiopian government`s task force for Tigray, told reporters that the U.N. team passed through two checkpoints without stopping while driving hastily to an unauthorized area.

"When they were about to break the third one, they were shot at and detained," he said.

Two diplomatic sources told Reuters the U.N. team encountered uniformed Eritrean troops, though both Ethiopia and

Eritrea have denied any incursion over the border by President Isaias Afwerki`s military. 
Abiy and Afwerki signed a peace pact ending two decades of hostilities in 2018 and now regard the TPLF as a mutual foe.

Ethiopia`s army has captured the regional capital Mekelle and declared victory, but TPLF leaders say they are fighting back on various fronts around the highland city.

"There are a few remnants of the militia or special forces not yet controlled ... kind of hooligans, outlaws," Redwan said.

ETHIOPIA: `WE CALL THE SHOTS`

Most communications in Tigray are down and access to the area is severely restricted, making it hard to verify either side`s statements. It was not immediately possible to reach the TPLF for comment on the latest government statements.

The United Nations and aid agencies are pressing for safe access to Tigray, which is home to more than 5 million people and where 600,000 relied on food aid even before the conflict.

"The agreement we entered with the U.N. was in the belief that the U.N. would coordinate with us but the government would call the shots," Redwan said, emphasizing that Ethiopia was capable of helping its own people.

He also said the government would investigate any reports of atrocities or mass killings and allow independent probes if needed. "Ethiopia is being run by a strong functional government," he added. "It doesn`t need a babysitter."

Dujarric told reporters in New York that talks on aid access were continuing with the Ethiopian government. "Are we getting unfettered, clear, humanitarian access at this point - no," said Dujarric.

In Mekelle, a doctor reached by Reuters said the hospital where he works was "totally non-functional" due to lack of electricity, fuel for generators, oxygen and medical supplies. Medics were unable to perform emergency surgery or effectively treat patients for problems such as childbirth complications and diabetes.

"Patients are dying outside and inside the hospital," he wrote in a message, saying that he was aware of three women who died after delivering babies at home and an infant on a ventilator who died because there was no oxygen.

Ethiopian federal troops were inside the hospital and have not intimidated medical staff or looted, the doctor added.

`PEOPLE CAN NO LONGER WAIT`

The government has said it was delivering aid in areas that it controlled, but relief agencies are increasingly frustrated at the difficult access to Tigray.

The Norwegian Refugee Council said it had waited weeks for clearance to deliver food, shelters and other essentials.

"Children, women and men in Tigray have now borne the brunt of this conflict for more than a month without any emergency assistance from outside the region," it said.

"These people can no longer be made to wait. Aid must not be left at a standstill."

A United Nations team visiting refugees in Ethiopia`s war-hit Tigray region had failed to stop at two checkpoints when it was shot at over the weekend, the government said on Tuesday, proclaiming it did not need a "baby-sitter".

A United Nations team visiting refugees in Ethiopia`s war-hit Tigray region had failed to stop at two checkpoints when it was shot at over the weekend, the government said on Tuesday, proclaiming it did not need a "baby-sitter". The U.N. security team was seeking access to the Shimelba camp for Eritrean refugees when they were fired at on Sunday. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said there were four people in the U.N. team assessing roads in the area for aid deliveries. "These are alarming reports and we are engaging at the highest level with the federal government to express our concern and avoid any such incidents in the future," said Dujarric, adding that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had spoken with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Monday. Abiy`s army has battled the Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF) in the northern region since Nov. 4. Thousands are feared dead and the U.N. estimates that more than 950,000 people have been displaced by the conflict, around 50,000 of them into neighbouring Sudan. The Ethiopian government did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the U.N. estimate. Redwan Hussein, spokesman for the Ethiopian government`s task force for Tigray, told reporters that the U.N. team passed through two checkpoints without stopping while driving hastily to an unauthorized area. "When they were about to break the third one, they were shot at and detained," he said. Two diplomatic sources told Reuters the U.N. team encountered uniformed Eritrean troops, though both Ethiopia and Eritrea have denied any incursion over the border by President Isaias Afwerki`s military. Abiy and Afwerki signed a peace pact ending two decades of hostilities in 2018 and now regard the TPLF as a mutual foe. Ethiopia`s army has captured the regional capital Mekelle and declared victory, but TPLF leaders say they are fighting back on various fronts around the highland city. "There are a few remnants of the militia or special forces not yet controlled ... kind of hooligans, outlaws," Redwan said. ETHIOPIA: `WE CALL THE SHOTS` Most communications in Tigray are down and access to the area is severely restricted, making it hard to verify either side`s statements. It was not immediately possible to reach the TPLF for comment on the latest government statements. The United Nations and aid agencies are pressing for safe access to Tigray, which is home to more than 5 million people and where 600,000 relied on food aid even before the conflict. "The agreement we entered with the U.N. was in the belief that the U.N. would coordinate with us but the government would call the shots," Redwan said, emphasizing that Ethiopia was capable of helping its own people. He also said the government would investigate any reports of atrocities or mass killings and allow independent probes if needed. "Ethiopia is being run by a strong functional government," he added. "It doesn`t need a babysitter." Dujarric told reporters in New York that talks on aid access were continuing with the Ethiopian government. "Are we getting unfettered, clear, humanitarian access at this point - no," said Dujarric. In Mekelle, a doctor reached by Reuters said the hospital where he works was "totally non-functional" due to lack of electricity, fuel for generators, oxygen and medical supplies. Medics were unable to perform emergency surgery or effectively treat patients for problems such as childbirth complications and diabetes. "Patients are dying outside and inside the hospital," he wrote in a message, saying that he was aware of three women who died after delivering babies at home and an infant on a ventilator who died because there was no oxygen. Ethiopian federal troops were inside the hospital and have not intimidated medical staff or looted, the doctor added. `PEOPLE CAN NO LONGER WAIT` The government has said it was delivering aid in areas that it controlled, but relief agencies are increasingly frustrated at the difficult access to Tigray. The Norwegian Refugee Council said it had waited weeks for clearance to deliver food, shelters and other essentials. "Children, women and men in Tigray have now borne the brunt of this conflict for more than a month without any emergency assistance from outside the region," it said. "These people can no longer be made to wait. Aid must not be left at a standstill."

Ethiopia says UN team shot at in Tigray after defying checkpoints

Ethiopia's federal government is inching closer to victory in Tigray, where violence between the government and regional militia has triggered a refugee crisis in the region, and has caused a media blackout. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is receiving help from neighbour - a longtime foe who recently joined in to help.

Ethiopia's war within has now escalated into a regional conflict, and neighbouring countries are taking sides. Eritrea, a former foe, is assisting prime minister Ahmed by sending soldiers to battle the local militia in Tigray.

Diplomats stationed in the region stand by this account. But officially, both sides have denied Eritrean involvement. Until recently - Ethiopia and Eritrea were sworn enemies. In 2018, they signed a peace deal putting a two-decade conflict to rest.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ethiopia-says-un-team-shot-at-in-tigray-after-defying-checkpoints-348465" hreflang="en">Ethiopia says UN team shot at in Tigray after defying checkpoints</a>

Abiy Ahmed was the architect of this peace, for which he also received a Nobel Peace Prize. Now, the two governments are closer than ever and liberated against The Tigray People's Liberation Front. Satellite images show Eritrean troops and artillery across the border. Eye-witness accounts put Eritrean troops on the battlefield.

As one US Official put it - The Eritreans are in Tigray - but they aren't saying it publicly. A senior diplomat believes thousands of Eritreans have been deployed to the region.

A former Eritrean defence minister claimed that his country has deployed four mechanised divisions, seven infantry divisions, and a commando brigade in Tigray. But the Eritrean soldiers are proving to be an unruly lot. On Sunday - they accosted a United Nations team in Tigray.

The UN officials were fired at, and detained. But Ethiopian authorities defended the soldiers, pinning the blame on the UN officials.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/fighting-flares-in-ethiopias-tigray-as-army-says-closing-in-on-rebellious-force-347855" hreflang="en">Fighting flares in Ethiopia's Tigray as army says closing in on rebellious force</a>

Eritrea's involvement puts the international community in a tight spot because Ethiopia is a key ally of the west, and remains crucial to maintaining peace in the horn of Africa. On the other hand, the Eritrean regime is infamous for human rights violations.

So while the global community has tolerated the operations in Tigray, Eritrean involvement could prove to be a red line.

Ethiopia's federal government is inching closer to victory in Tigray, where violence between the government and regional militia has triggered a refugee crisis in the region, and has caused a media blackout.

Ethiopia's federal government is inching closer to victory in Tigray, where violence between the government and regional militia has triggered a refugee crisis in the region, and has caused a media blackout. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is receiving help from neighbour - a longtime foe who recently joined in to help. Ethiopia's war within has now escalated into a regional conflict, and neighbouring countries are taking sides. Eritrea, a former foe, is assisting prime minister Ahmed by sending soldiers to battle the local militia in Tigray. Diplomats stationed in the region stand by this account. But officially, both sides have denied Eritrean involvement. Until recently - Ethiopia and Eritrea were sworn enemies. In 2018, they signed a peace deal putting a two-decade conflict to rest. Also read: Ethiopia says UN team shot at in Tigray after defying checkpoints Abiy Ahmed was the architect of this peace, for which he also received a Nobel Peace Prize. Now, the two governments are closer than ever and liberated against The Tigray People's Liberation Front. Satellite images show Eritrean troops and artillery across the border. Eye-witness accounts put Eritrean troops on the battlefield. As one US Official put it - The Eritreans are in Tigray - but they aren't saying it publicly. A senior diplomat believes thousands of Eritreans have been deployed to the region. A former Eritrean defence minister claimed that his country has deployed four mechanised divisions, seven infantry divisions, and a commando brigade in Tigray. But the Eritrean soldiers are proving to be an unruly lot. On Sunday - they accosted a United Nations team in Tigray. The UN officials were fired at, and detained. But Ethiopian authorities defended the soldiers, pinning the blame on the UN officials. Also read: Fighting flares in Ethiopia's Tigray as army says closing in on rebellious force Eritrea's involvement puts the international community in a tight spot because Ethiopia is a key ally of the west, and remains crucial to maintaining peace in the horn of Africa. On the other hand, the Eritrean regime is infamous for human rights violations. So while the global community has tolerated the operations in Tigray, Eritrean involvement could prove to be a red line.

Ethiopia and Eritrea - former foes now united against local militias in Tigray

A U.S. government source confirmed Washington’s growing consensus, which has not previously been reported but matches accounts by some residents, refugees and TPLF leaders

Has Eritrea entered the Ethiopian war?

Bombing, looting and skirmishes persisted in parts of Ethiopia`s Tigray on Saturday, a rebellious force in the northern region said after government troops declared they were within days of capturing the group`s leaders.

A month of fighting between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed`s federal army and the Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF) is believed to have killed thousands of people and driven some 46,000 refugees into neighbouring Sudan.

Abiy`s government has said the conflict is winding down a week after it seized Tigray`s regional capital, Mekelle, but TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael told Reuters in a text message on Saturday there was still fighting outside the city.

He said federal forces bombed the town of Abbi Adi on Friday, without giving further details, while a TPLF spokesman accused government troops of looting in Mekelle.

"(They are) looting civilian properties, hotels and damaging factories after looting," the spokesman Getachew Reda told a TPLF-owned TV station.

The government did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Most communications in Tigray are down and access to the area is severely restricted, making it hard to verify either side`s statements.

Abiy used to be a political partner of the TPLF - which dominated Ethiopia`s governing coalition for nearly three decades - but he irked his former allies by putting Tigrayan officials on trial for corruption and rights abuses.

They said the arrests were politically motivated, accusing Abiy of trying to tighten his grip over Ethiopia`s 10 semi-autonomous federal states. Abiy denies that, and has called the TPLF leaders criminals who mutinied against federal authority.

`HIDING IN CAVES`

Army Colonel Shambel Beyene said late on Friday that government forces were 10 km (six miles) away from a forest in the Gore area where Debretsion, Getachew and other TPLF members were thought to be hiding.

"We will only need a few days to get to them," he said on state television.

Relief agencies, meanwhile, are worried about a lack of food, fuel, medicines and even body bags in Tigray. Convoys are on standby to take aid in.

Residents in the central town of Shire told a new government-appointed provisional administration that the cost of groceries was sky-rocketing and fuel shortages were grounding ambulances used to take patients to hospitals.

"Residents are still staying away from their homes. Women are hiding in caves with their children," one man said at a meeting aired on EBC late on Friday.

Others complained about looting in the town.

Abiy`s government has said it will protect civilians in the northern region and ensure their needs are met.

"Work to rebuild Tigray has commenced with teams ... undertaking repair work (and) restoring services," he said in a Tweet on Saturday.

Abiy, who took office in 2018, won a Nobel Peace Prize the following year for making peace with neighbouring Eritrea and democratic reforms.

He began opening up a closed economy, loosening a repressive political system, and taking action against those accused of corruption and rights abuses - some of whom were Tigrayan officials. 
His government has also jailed thousands of opponents after violent unrest, angering his rivals.

Bombing, looting and skirmishes persisted in parts of Ethiopia`s Tigray on Saturday, a rebellious force in the northern region said after government troops declared they were within days of capturing the group`s leaders.

Bombing, looting and skirmishes persisted in parts of Ethiopia`s Tigray on Saturday, a rebellious force in the northern region said after government troops declared they were within days of capturing the group`s leaders. A month of fighting between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed`s federal army and the Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF) is believed to have killed thousands of people and driven some 46,000 refugees into neighbouring Sudan. Abiy`s government has said the conflict is winding down a week after it seized Tigray`s regional capital, Mekelle, but TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael told Reuters in a text message on Saturday there was still fighting outside the city. He said federal forces bombed the town of Abbi Adi on Friday, without giving further details, while a TPLF spokesman accused government troops of looting in Mekelle. "(They are) looting civilian properties, hotels and damaging factories after looting," the spokesman Getachew Reda told a TPLF-owned TV station. The government did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Most communications in Tigray are down and access to the area is severely restricted, making it hard to verify either side`s statements. Abiy used to be a political partner of the TPLF - which dominated Ethiopia`s governing coalition for nearly three decades - but he irked his former allies by putting Tigrayan officials on trial for corruption and rights abuses. They said the arrests were politically motivated, accusing Abiy of trying to tighten his grip over Ethiopia`s 10 semi-autonomous federal states. Abiy denies that, and has called the TPLF leaders criminals who mutinied against federal authority. `HIDING IN CAVES` Army Colonel Shambel Beyene said late on Friday that government forces were 10 km (six miles) away from a forest in the Gore area where Debretsion, Getachew and other TPLF members were thought to be hiding. "We will only need a few days to get to them," he said on state television. Relief agencies, meanwhile, are worried about a lack of food, fuel, medicines and even body bags in Tigray. Convoys are on standby to take aid in. Residents in the central town of Shire told a new government-appointed provisional administration that the cost of groceries was sky-rocketing and fuel shortages were grounding ambulances used to take patients to hospitals. "Residents are still staying away from their homes. Women are hiding in caves with their children," one man said at a meeting aired on EBC late on Friday. Others complained about looting in the town. Abiy`s government has said it will protect civilians in the northern region and ensure their needs are met. "Work to rebuild Tigray has commenced with teams ... undertaking repair work (and) restoring services," he said in a Tweet on Saturday. Abiy, who took office in 2018, won a Nobel Peace Prize the following year for making peace with neighbouring Eritrea and democratic reforms. He began opening up a closed economy, loosening a repressive political system, and taking action against those accused of corruption and rights abuses - some of whom were Tigrayan officials. His government has also jailed thousands of opponents after violent unrest, angering his rivals.

Fighting flares in Ethiopia's Tigray as army says closing in on rebellious force

Umm Rakouba now has over 10,000 refugees from the fighting in Ethiopia's rebellious Tigray province.

Ethiopian refugees refuse to move to UMM Rakouba camp | World News

Ethiopia federal forces have claimed that they have captured & killed some of the commanders of Tigrayan forces, while Tigray’s fugitive local leader said civilians were protesting against looting by occupying soldiers.

Ethiopia claims to have captured & killed Tigrayan leaders

The United Nations on Friday said that fighting continued in many parts of Ethiopia's Tigray is complicating the efforts to deliver humanitarian aid despite a deal granting the UN access to territory under federal control.

UN: Tigray fighting hampers aid delivery despite deal

The United Nations on Friday said that the fighting in the conflicted region of Tigray in Ethiopia still continues, hampering the efforts to deliver humanitarian aid.

Last week, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared victory a month after the fighting began, causing bombings, ground combat, among other things by both the sides.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-tigray-fighting-hampers-aid-delivery-despite-deal-347633/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

However, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) vowed to continue fighting.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopia-united-nations-agree-on-humanitarian-access-to-war-hit-tigray-347175">Ethiopia, United Nations agree on humanitarian access to war-hit Tigray</a>

"We have reports of fighting still going on in many parts of Tigray. This is concerning and it's a complex situation for us," Saviano Abreu, spokesman for the UN's humanitarian coordination office told news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The UN on Wednesday said it had reached a deal to carry out aid work in areas of Tigray that were run by the government.&nbsp;

However, three UN officials confirmed to AFP that security assessments are ongoing and aid was not expected to come before next week.&nbsp;

"Basically, at the moment there is no access," an official said. &nbsp;

The conflict in Tigray has caused a humanitarian crisis as thousands of people have already lost their lives and tens of thousands are seeking refuge in Sudan.&nbsp;

The UN has also been warning of a humanitarian catastrophe in the region.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United Nations on Friday said that the fighting in the conflicted region of Tigray in Ethiopia still continues, hampering the efforts to deliver humanitarian aid.

The United Nations on Friday said that the fighting in the conflicted region of Tigray in Ethiopia still continues, hampering the efforts to deliver humanitarian aid. Last week, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared victory a month after the fighting began, causing bombings, ground combat, among other things by both the sides. Watch | However, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) vowed to continue fighting. Also read | Ethiopia, United Nations agree on humanitarian access to war-hit Tigray "We have reports of fighting still going on in many parts of Tigray. This is concerning and it's a complex situation for us," Saviano Abreu, spokesman for the UN's humanitarian coordination office told news agency AFP. The UN on Wednesday said it had reached a deal to carry out aid work in areas of Tigray that were run by the government. However, three UN officials confirmed to AFP that security assessments are ongoing and aid was not expected to come before next week. "Basically, at the moment there is no access," an official said. The conflict in Tigray has caused a humanitarian crisis as thousands of people have already lost their lives and tens of thousands are seeking refuge in Sudan. The UN has also been warning of a humanitarian catastrophe in the region.

Fighting in Ethiopia's Tigray continues; humanitarian aid stalled: UN

The United Nations said Friday that fighting continued "in many parts" of Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, complicating efforts to deliver humanitarian aid despite an agreement granting the UN access to territory under federal control.

"We have reports of fighting still going on in many parts of Tigray. This is concerning and it's a complex situation for us," Saviano Abreu, spokesman for the UN's humanitarian coordination office, told AFP.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced military operations in Tigray a month ago, saying they were targeting leaders of the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

Thousands have died, according to the International Crisis Group, and tens of thousands of refugees have streamed across the border into Sudan.

Last week Abiy declared victory and said fighting was "completed" after federal forces entered the regional capital Mekele, but the TPLF has vowed to fight on.

The UN has been warning of a possible humanitarian catastrophe within Tigray, though a communications blackout has made it difficult to assess conditions on the ground.

On Wednesday the UN announced it had reached an agreement to administer aid in government-controlled areas of Tigray.

But as of Friday security assessments were still being conducted, and three UN officials told AFP that aid was not expected to arrive before next week.

"Basically, at the moment there is no access," one official said, arguing that the UN and the government "should have held off" on announcing the deal until preparations were further along.

"When you go public in the fashion they did, it creates expectations for people who think, 'Access has been given, why is help not reaching us?'" the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject.

The UN is continuing to negotiate "with all parties to the conflict" to ensure unfettered access, Abreu said.&nbsp;

"We have been granted this access, this agreement with the federal government. But we also have to have the same kind of agreement with all parties to the conflict to make sure we actually have unconditional free access to Tigray," he said.&nbsp;

Tigrayan leader Debretsion Gebremichael said Thursday that fighting occurred "around Mekele", and several diplomats also told AFP that clashes persisted in multiple locations in Tigray.

The United Nations said Friday that fighting continued "in many parts" of Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, complicating efforts to deliver humanitarian aid despite an agreement granting the UN access to territory under federal control.

The United Nations said Friday that fighting continued "in many parts" of Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, complicating efforts to deliver humanitarian aid despite an agreement granting the UN access to territory under federal control. "We have reports of fighting still going on in many parts of Tigray. This is concerning and it's a complex situation for us," Saviano Abreu, spokesman for the UN's humanitarian coordination office, told AFP. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced military operations in Tigray a month ago, saying they were targeting leaders of the region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). Thousands have died, according to the International Crisis Group, and tens of thousands of refugees have streamed across the border into Sudan. Last week Abiy declared victory and said fighting was "completed" after federal forces entered the regional capital Mekele, but the TPLF has vowed to fight on. The UN has been warning of a possible humanitarian catastrophe within Tigray, though a communications blackout has made it difficult to assess conditions on the ground. On Wednesday the UN announced it had reached an agreement to administer aid in government-controlled areas of Tigray. But as of Friday security assessments were still being conducted, and three UN officials told AFP that aid was not expected to arrive before next week. "Basically, at the moment there is no access," one official said, arguing that the UN and the government "should have held off" on announcing the deal until preparations were further along. "When you go public in the fashion they did, it creates expectations for people who think, 'Access has been given, why is help not reaching us?'" the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the subject. The UN is continuing to negotiate "with all parties to the conflict" to ensure unfettered access, Abreu said. "We have been granted this access, this agreement with the federal government. But we also have to have the same kind of agreement with all parties to the conflict to make sure we actually have unconditional free access to Tigray," he said. Tigrayan leader Debretsion Gebremichael said Thursday that fighting occurred "around Mekele", and several diplomats also told AFP that clashes persisted in multiple locations in Tigray.

UN says Tigray fighting hampers aid delivery despite deal

More than 45,000 refugees have crossed into neighbouring Sudan, while many more have been displaced within Tigray

An act of kindness: Kanoush devotes his free time helping other Ethiopian refugees

Syrian students helping supply clean water to thousands of Ethiopian refugees in Sudan through his volunteer work. University student now wants to tell people that refugees can make a change in any country.

Your Story: Syrian refugees help Ethiopians with supply of clean water to camps

Ethiopia and the United Nations have agreed to channel humanitarian access&nbsp;to the northern region of Tigray.

Federal troops have been battling the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and have captured the regional capital Mekelle. A month of war is believed to have killed thousands of combatants and civilians in the region.

The accord "seeks to enable unimpeded, sustained and secure access for humanitarian personnel and services in areas under the control of the federal government in Tigray and the bordering areas of Amhara and Afar regions", Xinhua news agency quoted the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) as saying in a statement on Wednesday. 
 
An assessment and response mission already is under way to the east in Afar`s border areas to reach the internally displaced. 
 
"We, along with our humanitarian partners in Ethiopia, are engaging with the federal government and all parties to the conflict to ensure that humanitarian action in Tigray, Amhara and Afar regions is strictly based on needs," said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. 
 
The agreement aims to help people without distinction of any kind other than the urgency of their needs, Dujarric told a regular press briefing. 
 
The world organization and humanitarian partners have been seeking access to the affected areas for weeks. 
 
More than 800,000 people are already in urgent need of assistance in Tigray, including about 96,000 Eritrean refugees and nearly 600,000 people who were relying on food aid, humanitarians said. 
 
About 46,000 people fled into Sudan, the UN Refugee Agency reported earlier in the week. 
&nbsp;

The pact announced by UN officials will allow relief into government-controlled areas of Tigray.

The Ethiopian conflict has forced more than 45,000 refugees to flee into Sudan, displaced many more within Tigray and worsened suffering in a region where 600,000 people already depended on food aid even before hostilities broke out on November 4.

Four Ethiopian employees of two foreign aid agencies were killed in a camp for Eritrean refugees in Tigray last month, a humanitarian and a diplomatic source said.

Also, food is said to be running out for 96,000 Eritrean refugees in Tigray who have fled repression in their own country, and medics in Mekelle are falling short of painkillers, gloves and bodybags, the International Committee of the Red Cross said.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared victory after the fall of Mekelle on Saturday, but there has has been little verifiable information from the highland city of 500,000 people since.

TPLF leaders fled for the hills, from where they say they continue to fight.

Abiy, who hails from the larger Oromo and Amharic ethic groups, calls the Tigrayan leaders criminals opposing national unity and plotting attacks in Addis Ababa and elsewhere.

Federal police blamed the TPLF, without proof, for a small blast in the capital on Wednesday that injured an officer lightly. There was no immediate response from the TPLF.

"Wars are not like taps that you turn on and then turn off. This is going to be a very long, drawn-out process," Horn of Africa expert Rashid Abdi told an online forum.

(with inputs from agencies)

Ethiopia and the United Nations have agreed to channel humanitarian access to the northern region of Tigray. Federal troops have been battling the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and have captured the regional capital Mekelle.

Ethiopia and the United Nations have agreed to channel humanitarian access to the northern region of Tigray. Federal troops have been battling the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and have captured the regional capital Mekelle. A month of war is believed to have killed thousands of combatants and civilians in the region. The accord "seeks to enable unimpeded, sustained and secure access for humanitarian personnel and services in areas under the control of the federal government in Tigray and the bordering areas of Amhara and Afar regions", Xinhua news agency quoted the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) as saying in a statement on Wednesday. An assessment and response mission already is under way to the east in Afar`s border areas to reach the internally displaced. "We, along with our humanitarian partners in Ethiopia, are engaging with the federal government and all parties to the conflict to ensure that humanitarian action in Tigray, Amhara and Afar regions is strictly based on needs," said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The agreement aims to help people without distinction of any kind other than the urgency of their needs, Dujarric told a regular press briefing. The world organization and humanitarian partners have been seeking access to the affected areas for weeks. More than 800,000 people are already in urgent need of assistance in Tigray, including about 96,000 Eritrean refugees and nearly 600,000 people who were relying on food aid, humanitarians said. About 46,000 people fled into Sudan, the UN Refugee Agency reported earlier in the week. The pact announced by UN officials will allow relief into government-controlled areas of Tigray. The Ethiopian conflict has forced more than 45,000 refugees to flee into Sudan, displaced many more within Tigray and worsened suffering in a region where 600,000 people already depended on food aid even before hostilities broke out on November 4. Four Ethiopian employees of two foreign aid agencies were killed in a camp for Eritrean refugees in Tigray last month, a humanitarian and a diplomatic source said. Also, food is said to be running out for 96,000 Eritrean refugees in Tigray who have fled repression in their own country, and medics in Mekelle are falling short of painkillers, gloves and bodybags, the International Committee of the Red Cross said. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared victory after the fall of Mekelle on Saturday, but there has has been little verifiable information from the highland city of 500,000 people since. TPLF leaders fled for the hills, from where they say they continue to fight. Abiy, who hails from the larger Oromo and Amharic ethic groups, calls the Tigrayan leaders criminals opposing national unity and plotting attacks in Addis Ababa and elsewhere. Federal police blamed the TPLF, without proof, for a small blast in the capital on Wednesday that injured an officer lightly. There was no immediate response from the TPLF. "Wars are not like taps that you turn on and then turn off. This is going to be a very long, drawn-out process," Horn of Africa expert Rashid Abdi told an online forum. (with inputs from agencies)

Ethiopia, United Nations agree on humanitarian access to war-hit Tigray

Ethiopian govt has claimed that TPLF Executive Committee Member Keria Ibrahim linked to the rebellion in the northern region of Tigray has surrendered.

Ethiopia Govt: TPLF EC Member Keria Ibrahim surrenders to federal forces

Ethiopian govt has claimed that 1 of 9 senior politician linked to the rebellion in the northern region of Tigray has surrendered.

Ethiopia Govt: 1 of 9 TPLF executive committee leader surrendered

Ethiopia Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has lauded his soldiers for victory over Tigray forces, however Tigrayan leader has said that they are still fighting & the war is not over yet. WION brings you a report.

Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed lauds soldiers over Mekele victory

The ongoing civil unrest in Ethiopia's Tigray provinces unleashed massive damage to both life & property. Hospitals in the region faced an influx of trauma patients a day after federal troops claimed control of the city and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said fighting was over.

Ethiopia Civil Unrest: Tigray witnesses an influx of trauma patients

Six explosions were reported in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, on Saturday night, the US State Department said.

It is being assumed that the blasts are related to the conflict in the neighbouring Tigray region of Ethiopia.

"At 10:13 pm on Nov 28 there were six explosions in Asmara," the State Department said in the post on Sunday. It further urged Americans to "remain situationally aware of the ongoing conflict in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia."

Tigrayan forces fighting Ethiopian soldiers have previously fired rockets at Eritrea.

On Saturday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that federal forces had taken control of Mekelle, Tigray's capital, within hours of launching an offensive there.

The Tigrayan People's Liberation Front (TPLF), a political party whose fight against the government began on Nov. 4, said it was withdrawing from Mekelle. The government says the TPLF began the conflict with a surprise attack on federal forces. The TPLF has described it as a "pre-emptive strike".

The TPLF regards Eritrea, which has warm relations with Abiy, as an archenemy.

The TPLF dominated Ethiopian politics from 1991 to 2018 as the most powerful member of a multi-ethnic coalition that ruled with an iron grip. The last few years of its rule were marked by bloody anti-government demonstrations. The jails filled with tens of thousands of political prisoners.

When Abiy came to power in 2018, he speeded up democratic reforms: freeing prisoners, unbanning political parties, and promising to hold the nation's first free and fair elections.

But the TPLF and some other ethnically based parties accuse him of wanting to centralise control at the expense of Ethiopia's 10 regions. The constitution grants them wide-ranging powers over matters like taxation and security.

Abiy has denied he wants to centralise power at the expense of the regions.

This year, Abiy postponed elections scheduled for August to next year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The TPLF accused him of a power grab, held its own regional elections in September and announced it no longer recognised federal authority.

(with inputs)

Six explosions were reported in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, on Saturday night, the US State Department said. It is being assumed that the blasts are related to the conflict in the neighbouring Tigray region of Ethiopia.

Six explosions were reported in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, on Saturday night, the US State Department said. It is being assumed that the blasts are related to the conflict in the neighbouring Tigray region of Ethiopia. "At 10:13 pm on Nov 28 there were six explosions in Asmara," the State Department said in the post on Sunday. It further urged Americans to "remain situationally aware of the ongoing conflict in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia." Tigrayan forces fighting Ethiopian soldiers have previously fired rockets at Eritrea. On Saturday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that federal forces had taken control of Mekelle, Tigray's capital, within hours of launching an offensive there. The Tigrayan People's Liberation Front (TPLF), a political party whose fight against the government began on Nov. 4, said it was withdrawing from Mekelle. The government says the TPLF began the conflict with a surprise attack on federal forces. The TPLF has described it as a "pre-emptive strike". The TPLF regards Eritrea, which has warm relations with Abiy, as an archenemy. The TPLF dominated Ethiopian politics from 1991 to 2018 as the most powerful member of a multi-ethnic coalition that ruled with an iron grip. The last few years of its rule were marked by bloody anti-government demonstrations. The jails filled with tens of thousands of political prisoners. When Abiy came to power in 2018, he speeded up democratic reforms: freeing prisoners, unbanning political parties, and promising to hold the nation's first free and fair elections. But the TPLF and some other ethnically based parties accuse him of wanting to centralise control at the expense of Ethiopia's 10 regions. The constitution grants them wide-ranging powers over matters like taxation and security. Abiy has denied he wants to centralise power at the expense of the regions. This year, Abiy postponed elections scheduled for August to next year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The TPLF accused him of a power grab, held its own regional elections in September and announced it no longer recognised federal authority. (with inputs)

Eritrean capital Asmara rocked by six explosions

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced the end of military operations in the northern Tigray region after saying it was in "full control" of the regional capital, Mekele.

Ethiopia declares victory as army takes control over Tigray capital

The Ethiopian government launched a manhunt on Sunday for leaders of a rebellious faction in the northern region of Tigray after announcing federal troops had taken over the regional capital and military operations were complete. 
 
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed government has been trying to quell a rebellion by the Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF), a powerful ethnically-based party that dominated the central government from 1991 until Abiy came to power in 2018. 
 
He said on Saturday evening federal troops had taken control of the Tigrayan capital Mekelle within hours of launching an offensive there, laying to rest fears of protracted fighting in the city of 500,000 people. 
 
The prime minister, who refers to the three-week-old conflict as an internal law and order matter and has rebuffed international offers of mediation, said federal police will try to arrest TPLF "criminals" and bring them to court. 
 
However, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael told Reuters in a text message on Saturday evening that TPLF forces would fight on, raising the prospect that the conflict could drag on. 
 
Thousands of people are believed to have been killed and nearly 44,000 have fled to Sudan since the fighting began on Nov. 4. The conflict has been another test for Abiy, who took office two years ago and is trying to hold together a patchwork of ethnic groups that make up Ethiopia`s 115 million people. 
 
The flow of refugees and attacks by the TPLF on neighbouring Eritrea have also threatened to destabilize the wider Horn of Africa region. 
 
Claims from all sides are difficult to verify since phone and internet links to Tigray have been down and access tightly controlled since the fighting began. 
 
The police late on Saturday issued arrest warrants for 17 more military officers charged with crimes in connection with the conflict that include treason and embezzlement of public properties, state-affiliated Fana TV reported. They add to the 117 warrants issued for senior military officers it says are connected to TPLF since the conflict broke out. 
 
It was not clear if any TPLF leaders had surrendered, their whereabouts or their next plans. 
 
"Their brutality can only add (to) our resolve to fight these invaders to the last," the TPLF`s Debretsion told Reuters in a text message on Saturday. 
 
Asked by Reuters if that meant his forces would continue fighting, he replied: “Certainly. This is about defending our right to self determination.” 
 
Debretsion said in another text message that Tigrayan forces were withdrawing from around Mekelle. 
 
HISTORY OF RESISTANCE 
 
Regional diplomats and experts have warned that a rapid military victory might not signal the end of the conflict. 
 
The TPLF has a history of guerrilla resistance. Tigray`s mountainous terrain and borders with Sudan and Eritrea helped the TPLF during its long struggle against Marxist dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam, whom it eventually toppled in 1991. 
 
The TPLF and Eritrean forces fought together against Mengistu, but relations later soured after Eritrea became independent in 1993. The two nations fought over a border dispute in 1998-2000 and the TPLF sees Eritrea as a mortal enemy. 
 
Eritrea signed a peace deal with Abiy in 2018, and the prime minister won the Nobel Peace Prize last year. 
 
EXPLOSIONS IN ERITREA`S CAPITAL 
 
Six explosions were reported in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, on Saturday night, the U.S. State Department said, although it was not immediately clear if they were related to the Tigray conflict. The State Department post did not mention the cause or location of the explosions. 
 
Tigrayan forces fired rockets at Eritrea on Nov. 14. 
 
Reuters was unable to reach the Eritrean government or Tigrayan forces for comment. 
 
The TPLF, which denounces Abiy`s warm relations with Eritrea, has accused Eritrea of sending troops to Tigray to join the Ethiopian government`s fight. 
 
It has not been possible to contact the Eritrean government for comment on this. 
 
The TPLF also accuses Abiy of wanting to centralise control at the expense of Ethiopia`s 10 regions. The constitution grants the regions wide-ranging powers over matters like taxation and security. 
 
Abiy has denied he wants to centralise power. 
 
This year, Abiy postponed elections scheduled for August to next year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Calling this a power grab, the TPLF held its own regional elections in September and announced it no longer recognised federal authority. Abiy`s government declared the Tigray election illegal.

The Ethiopian government launched a manhunt on Sunday for leaders of a rebellious faction in the northern region of Tigray after announcing federal troops had taken over the regional capital and military operations were complete.

The Ethiopian government launched a manhunt on Sunday for leaders of a rebellious faction in the northern region of Tigray after announcing federal troops had taken over the regional capital and military operations were complete. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed government has been trying to quell a rebellion by the Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF), a powerful ethnically-based party that dominated the central government from 1991 until Abiy came to power in 2018. He said on Saturday evening federal troops had taken control of the Tigrayan capital Mekelle within hours of launching an offensive there, laying to rest fears of protracted fighting in the city of 500,000 people. The prime minister, who refers to the three-week-old conflict as an internal law and order matter and has rebuffed international offers of mediation, said federal police will try to arrest TPLF "criminals" and bring them to court. However, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael told Reuters in a text message on Saturday evening that TPLF forces would fight on, raising the prospect that the conflict could drag on. Thousands of people are believed to have been killed and nearly 44,000 have fled to Sudan since the fighting began on Nov. 4. The conflict has been another test for Abiy, who took office two years ago and is trying to hold together a patchwork of ethnic groups that make up Ethiopia`s 115 million people. The flow of refugees and attacks by the TPLF on neighbouring Eritrea have also threatened to destabilize the wider Horn of Africa region. Claims from all sides are difficult to verify since phone and internet links to Tigray have been down and access tightly controlled since the fighting began. The police late on Saturday issued arrest warrants for 17 more military officers charged with crimes in connection with the conflict that include treason and embezzlement of public properties, state-affiliated Fana TV reported. They add to the 117 warrants issued for senior military officers it says are connected to TPLF since the conflict broke out. It was not clear if any TPLF leaders had surrendered, their whereabouts or their next plans. "Their brutality can only add (to) our resolve to fight these invaders to the last," the TPLF`s Debretsion told Reuters in a text message on Saturday. Asked by Reuters if that meant his forces would continue fighting, he replied: “Certainly. This is about defending our right to self determination.” Debretsion said in another text message that Tigrayan forces were withdrawing from around Mekelle. HISTORY OF RESISTANCE Regional diplomats and experts have warned that a rapid military victory might not signal the end of the conflict. The TPLF has a history of guerrilla resistance. Tigray`s mountainous terrain and borders with Sudan and Eritrea helped the TPLF during its long struggle against Marxist dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam, whom it eventually toppled in 1991. The TPLF and Eritrean forces fought together against Mengistu, but relations later soured after Eritrea became independent in 1993. The two nations fought over a border dispute in 1998-2000 and the TPLF sees Eritrea as a mortal enemy. Eritrea signed a peace deal with Abiy in 2018, and the prime minister won the Nobel Peace Prize last year. EXPLOSIONS IN ERITREA`S CAPITAL Six explosions were reported in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, on Saturday night, the U.S. State Department said, although it was not immediately clear if they were related to the Tigray conflict. The State Department post did not mention the cause or location of the explosions. Tigrayan forces fired rockets at Eritrea on Nov. 14. Reuters was unable to reach the Eritrean government or Tigrayan forces for comment. The TPLF, which denounces Abiy`s warm relations with Eritrea, has accused Eritrea of sending troops to Tigray to join the Ethiopian government`s fight. It has not been possible to contact the Eritrean government for comment on this. The TPLF also accuses Abiy of wanting to centralise control at the expense of Ethiopia`s 10 regions. The constitution grants the regions wide-ranging powers over matters like taxation and security. Abiy has denied he wants to centralise power. This year, Abiy postponed elections scheduled for August to next year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Calling this a power grab, the TPLF held its own regional elections in September and announced it no longer recognised federal authority. Abiy`s government declared the Tigray election illegal.

Ethiopia says military operation in Tigray region is over, hunt for regional leaders begins

Ethiopia claimed victory in its conflict with the restive region of Tigray on Sunday

Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed claims victory in Tigray conflict

Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi arrived in South Sudan on Saturday (November 28) amid rising tension and instability in the region. The conflict between Ethiopia and Ethiopian region of Tigray is spiraling into neighbouring countrires and threatening regional stability.

Egypt, Africa's third-most populous nation, relies on the Nile for more than 90% of its fresh water supplies and wants a legally binding treaty on how Ethiopia can use the Blue Nile's waters. According to officials, President Sisi and South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, will discuss bilateral issues and exchange views on regional stability, as well as deepening South Sudan's and Egypt's diplomatic ties.

South Sudan's cabinet recently decided to change the country's currency in order to improve the economy. On November 17, the International Monetary Fund said it had approved a $52.3 million rapid credit facility to South Sudan to help it limit the economic damage of the COVID-19 pandemic.

South Sudan's economy is still buckling from the damage caused by years of civil war between government forces under Kiir and those allied with Vice President Riek Machar. The fighting hit oil production, which is now also being affected by low prices for crude.

(With Reuters inputs)

Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi arrived in South Sudan on Saturday (November 28) amid rising tension and instability in the region. The conflict between Ethiopia and Ethiopian region of Tigray is spiraling into neighbouring countrires and threatening regional stability.

Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi arrived in South Sudan on Saturday (November 28) amid rising tension and instability in the region. The conflict between Ethiopia and Ethiopian region of Tigray is spiraling into neighbouring countrires and threatening regional stability. Egypt, Africa's third-most populous nation, relies on the Nile for more than 90% of its fresh water supplies and wants a legally binding treaty on how Ethiopia can use the Blue Nile's waters. According to officials, President Sisi and South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, will discuss bilateral issues and exchange views on regional stability, as well as deepening South Sudan's and Egypt's diplomatic ties. South Sudan's cabinet recently decided to change the country's currency in order to improve the economy. On November 17, the International Monetary Fund said it had approved a $52.3 million rapid credit facility to South Sudan to help it limit the economic damage of the COVID-19 pandemic. South Sudan's economy is still buckling from the damage caused by years of civil war between government forces under Kiir and those allied with Vice President Riek Machar. The fighting hit oil production, which is now also being affected by low prices for crude. (With Reuters inputs)

Egypt president arrives in South Sudan amid rising regional tensions

Eritrea's capital came under fire from Ethiopia's breakaway Tigray region Friday, raising fears that Ethiopia's internal conflict could spread as leader Abiy Ahmed resisted calls for dialogue.

For more than three weeks now, Ethiopia and Tigray have engaged in fierce fighting that the International Crisis Group said Friday had left thousands dead "including many civilians as well as security forces".

On Friday night, at least one rocket fired from the northern Tigray region targeted neighbouring Eritrea, four regional diplomats told AFP.

Abiy, the winner of last year's Nobel Peace Prize, announced Thursday a "third and final phase" in his campaign against leaders of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

Global concern remains centred on the half a million residents of Mekele, Tigray's regional capital, which the army says it has encircled ahead of the threatened attack.

World leaders and human rights groups have warned such a strike could violate rules of war and were calling for urgent mediation.

Pope Francis was among those worried about the intensifying fighting, growing loss of life and displacement, Vatican media head Matteo Bruni said Friday.

Abiy announced military operations in Tigray on November 4 after months of friction between his government and the TPLF, which dominated Ethiopian politics for nearly three decades before Abiy took office in 2018.

The prime minister has refused to negotiate with the TPLF and dismissed calls for dialogue as "interference" in Ethiopia's internal affairs.

On Friday he met with three African ex-leaders -- Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Kgalema Motlanthe of South Africa -- dispatched this week by the African Union as mediators.

- 'Enforce rule of law' -

In a statement issued after their meeting in Addis Ababa, Abiy said he appreciated "this gesture and... the steadfast commitment this demonstrates to the principle of African solutions to African problems".

Even so, the government has a "constitutionally mandated responsibility to enforce rule of law in the region and across the country," his office said in a statement.

"Failure to do so would further a culture of impunity with devastating cost to the survival of the country," it said.

UN chief Antonio Guterres welcomed the talks with the AU envoys and urged all parties to "peacefully resolve the conflict".

The UN Secretary-General also stressed the need "to ensure the protection of civilians, human rights and access for humanitarian assistance to the affected areas".

The Tigrayan government, meanwhile, said Friday the federal army was bombarding towns and villages and inflicting heavy damage, although it did not specifically mention Mekele.

"Our struggle will continue from every direction until the self-determination of the People of Tigray is guaranteed and the invading force is driven out," Tigrayan authorities said in a statement read on regional television.

A communications blackout in Tigray has made it difficult to verify claims from both sides on the fighting.

Hostilities have erupted in a year when the 55-member AU -- which is headquartered in Addis Ababa -- resolved to play a more prominent role in resolving conflicts across the continent under the slogan "Silencing the Guns".

- Fresh strike on Eritrea -

At least one rocket fired from Tigray targeted neighbouring Eritrea Friday night, four regional diplomats told AFP, the second such attack since Ethiopia's internal conflict broke out earlier this month.

There was no immediate confirmation of how many rockets were fired, where they landed, and any casualties or damage caused.

The TPLF has accused Ethiopia of enlisting Eritrean military support in the fighting, a charge Ethiopia denies.

The group claimed responsibility for similar strikes on Eritrea two weeks ago, but there was no immediate comment from its leaders Friday.

Abiy, who ordered the "final" offensive on TPLF forces in Mekele after the lapsing of a deadline for their surrender earlier this week, said "great care" would be taken to protect civilians and spare the city from severe damage.

- Humanitarian crisis -

The prospect of a full-scale attack accelerated diplomatic efforts this week to resolve the conflict, with the UN Security Council holding its first meeting on Tigray and US and European officials urging restraint.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, who met his Ethiopian counterpart Demeke Mekonnen in Paris on Thursday, called for urgent measures to protect civilians as the humanitarian fallout from the crisis worsened across the region.

The UNHCR said Friday that nearly 100,000 Eritrean refugees in Tigray could run out of food as early as Monday if supplies could not reach them.

In eastern Sudan, meanwhile, where more than 40,000 refugees have escaped the fighting in Tigray, local authorities are struggling to meet the sudden surge in demand for food, shelter and other life-saving essentials.

Eritrea's capital came under fire from Ethiopia's breakaway Tigray region Friday, raising fears that Ethiopia's internal conflict could spread as leader Abiy Ahmed resisted calls for dialogue.

Eritrea's capital came under fire from Ethiopia's breakaway Tigray region Friday, raising fears that Ethiopia's internal conflict could spread as leader Abiy Ahmed resisted calls for dialogue. For more than three weeks now, Ethiopia and Tigray have engaged in fierce fighting that the International Crisis Group said Friday had left thousands dead "including many civilians as well as security forces". On Friday night, at least one rocket fired from the northern Tigray region targeted neighbouring Eritrea, four regional diplomats told AFP. Abiy, the winner of last year's Nobel Peace Prize, announced Thursday a "third and final phase" in his campaign against leaders of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). Global concern remains centred on the half a million residents of Mekele, Tigray's regional capital, which the army says it has encircled ahead of the threatened attack. World leaders and human rights groups have warned such a strike could violate rules of war and were calling for urgent mediation. Pope Francis was among those worried about the intensifying fighting, growing loss of life and displacement, Vatican media head Matteo Bruni said Friday. Abiy announced military operations in Tigray on November 4 after months of friction between his government and the TPLF, which dominated Ethiopian politics for nearly three decades before Abiy took office in 2018. The prime minister has refused to negotiate with the TPLF and dismissed calls for dialogue as "interference" in Ethiopia's internal affairs. On Friday he met with three African ex-leaders -- Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and Kgalema Motlanthe of South Africa -- dispatched this week by the African Union as mediators. - 'Enforce rule of law' - In a statement issued after their meeting in Addis Ababa, Abiy said he appreciated "this gesture and... the steadfast commitment this demonstrates to the principle of African solutions to African problems". Even so, the government has a "constitutionally mandated responsibility to enforce rule of law in the region and across the country," his office said in a statement. "Failure to do so would further a culture of impunity with devastating cost to the survival of the country," it said. UN chief Antonio Guterres welcomed the talks with the AU envoys and urged all parties to "peacefully resolve the conflict". The UN Secretary-General also stressed the need "to ensure the protection of civilians, human rights and access for humanitarian assistance to the affected areas". The Tigrayan government, meanwhile, said Friday the federal army was bombarding towns and villages and inflicting heavy damage, although it did not specifically mention Mekele. "Our struggle will continue from every direction until the self-determination of the People of Tigray is guaranteed and the invading force is driven out," Tigrayan authorities said in a statement read on regional television. A communications blackout in Tigray has made it difficult to verify claims from both sides on the fighting. Hostilities have erupted in a year when the 55-member AU -- which is headquartered in Addis Ababa -- resolved to play a more prominent role in resolving conflicts across the continent under the slogan "Silencing the Guns". - Fresh strike on Eritrea - At least one rocket fired from Tigray targeted neighbouring Eritrea Friday night, four regional diplomats told AFP, the second such attack since Ethiopia's internal conflict broke out earlier this month. There was no immediate confirmation of how many rockets were fired, where they landed, and any casualties or damage caused. The TPLF has accused Ethiopia of enlisting Eritrean military support in the fighting, a charge Ethiopia denies. The group claimed responsibility for similar strikes on Eritrea two weeks ago, but there was no immediate comment from its leaders Friday. Abiy, who ordered the "final" offensive on TPLF forces in Mekele after the lapsing of a deadline for their surrender earlier this week, said "great care" would be taken to protect civilians and spare the city from severe damage. - Humanitarian crisis - The prospect of a full-scale attack accelerated diplomatic efforts this week to resolve the conflict, with the UN Security Council holding its first meeting on Tigray and US and European officials urging restraint. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, who met his Ethiopian counterpart Demeke Mekonnen in Paris on Thursday, called for urgent measures to protect civilians as the humanitarian fallout from the crisis worsened across the region. The UNHCR said Friday that nearly 100,000 Eritrean refugees in Tigray could run out of food as early as Monday if supplies could not reach them. In eastern Sudan, meanwhile, where more than 40,000 refugees have escaped the fighting in Tigray, local authorities are struggling to meet the sudden surge in demand for food, shelter and other life-saving essentials.

Rockets target Eritrea as Ethiopia leader resists calls for dialogue

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