The United States has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in Ethiopia’s Amhara state.
The region has been embroiled in an insurgency since April 2023, when the Fano militia, a powerful self-defense group, took up arms against the federal government.
The government responded by declaring a state of emergency in August 2023, which was lifted in June.
However, tensions have persisted, leading to a significant deployment of federal forces in September.
During a phone conversation between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Blinken emphasized the urgent need for political dialogue to address the ongoing conflict in Amhara and other parts of the country.
The US diplomat also raised concerns about the growing tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, particularly following Abiy’s controversial deal with a breakaway Somali region to lease a portion of their coastline.
This move has infuriated the Somali government and strained regional relations.
Despite the rising tensions, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has assured his parliament that the country has no intention of engaging in war.
However, the situation remains volatile, and the international community is closely monitoring developments in the region.