Explosions were reported in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, overnight on Wednesday, targeting the federal army's headquarters and a military base. A diplomatic source in Addis Ababa attributed the incident to a drone strike, stating it was the "most probable" cause. The source, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that there was no independent confirmation or imagery available.
The Ethiopian authorities and federal army have not commented on the incident. The explosions occurred as the country faces renewed conflict in the north, primarily between the federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). The TPLF is a key member of the Alliance for Survival, a coalition of groups opposed to the federal government.
According to the Critical Threats project, a US-based think tank, the Alliance for Survival launched a drone strike campaign across Ethiopia, including in Addis Ababa. The project confirmed that drones were used in the attack, which likely employed FPV (First Person View) drones, a type of commercial drone modified with an explosive payload.
The drone strikes hit a military camp in the capital and the Ministry of Defense, which houses the headquarters of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which marks the first time the capital has been targeted in years. The conflict so far has been confined to the Tigray region and its surroundings.
The renewed conflict in Ethiopia's north began on September 23, pitting the TPLF and Amhara regional militias against federal forces. The situation has raised concerns about the humanitarian impact on civilians. The Ethiopian government has faced criticism for its handling of the conflict, with many calling for a peaceful resolution.
The incident has sparked international attention, with diplomatic efforts underway to mitigate the crisis. The Ethiopian government has taken measures to address the situation, including expelling Eritrean diplomats and closing its embassy in Asmara. The developments have significant implications for regional stability and security.
The humanitarian situation in Ethiopia's Tigray region remains a pressing concern, with thousands of civilians affected by the conflict. Efforts to provide aid and support to those impacted are ongoing, but challenges persist due to the security situation. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, urging restraint and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Key points
- The drone strikes on Addis Ababa mark a significant escalation in the conflict, targeting the federal army's headquarters and a military base.
- The incident has raised concerns about the humanitarian impact on civilians and the potential for further escalation.
- The Ethiopian government faces criticism for its handling of the conflict, with many calling for a peaceful resolution.
