A group of 20 Israelis are currently stranded in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia, where conflict has been escalating between government forces and armed groups. According to reports from the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the Israelis are in need of assistance and have reached out to the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs for help. The situation on the ground is dire, with all airports in the area closed and roads deemed unsafe.

The Israelis, who were in the city of Lalibela, have expressed concerns about their safety and well-being. They have reported a shortage of food, fuel, and electricity, as well as limited access to communication. The group has urged the Israeli government to explore options for a safe and immediate evacuation. The conflict in Tigray has been ongoing, with reports of heavy fighting and civilian casualties.

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that it is working to assist the stranded citizens. Officials have confirmed that they are in contact with the Israelis and are exploring options for their safe departure. However, the situation on the ground remains fluid, and the ministry has warned that the evacuation process may be complex.

The conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region began in November 2020, when tensions between the federal government and the regional authorities escalated into violence. The situation has since deteriorated, with reports of widespread human rights abuses and humanitarian crises. The international community has expressed concern about the situation, with calls for a ceasefire and humanitarian access.

The Israelis who are stranded in Ethiopia are reportedly being housed in a secure hotel in Lalibela. However, the situation has become increasingly precarious, with reports of shelling and gunfire in the area. One of the Israelis, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed fear for their safety and urged the government to act quickly to evacuate them.

The Israeli government has confirmed that it is working closely with local authorities and international partners to secure the safe departure of its citizens. However, the process is being complicated by the rapidly changing security situation on the ground. The government has urged the Israelis to remain calm and to follow its instructions.

The situation in Ethiopia remains volatile, with concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict. The international community continues to call for a ceasefire and humanitarian access to the affected areas. The Israelis who are stranded in Tigray are currently dependent on the government's efforts to secure their safe evacuation.

Key points

  • 20 Israelis are stranded in northern Ethiopia due to the conflict.
  • The Israeli government is working to assist its citizens and explore options for a safe evacuation.
  • The situation on the ground remains fluid and complex, with concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.