At least 52 civilians have been killed in heavy fighting between government forces and regional fighters in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, according to medical sources speaking to the BBC. The deaths occurred over three days of intense clashes, as seven armed groups have allied in an attempt to remove the government.
British citizens are trapped in the country after airports were closed for commercial flights, raising fears of a return to civil war. Government forces have reportedly taken control of the town of Alamata, previously held by regional fighters, with videos on social media showing tanks on the streets.
Violence Erupts After Ceasefire Tensions
The violence broke out last week after tensions escalated between Ethiopia's government and the party controlling the Tigray region. Both sides accuse each other of violating a 2022 ceasefire deal that ended a previous two-year civil war.
The unrest has affected other parts of the country. Last week, 33 tourists were stranded in Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its 13th-century rock-hewn churches and a holy site for millions of Orthodox Christians.
Tourists Describe Gunfire and Artillery
Speaking to the BBC, one anonymous British tourist said: "We have heard fighting, gunfire and artillery cannons firing throughout the week." The tourist noted a large military presence in the area during their stay.
Most travellers have been unable to leave the country, as the airport has been closed for commercial flights since last Wednesday. The British tourist added that 14 Israelis had been evacuated by military helicopter on Monday.
Armed Groups Unite Against Government
The violence around Lalibela has involved the country's armed forces and the Amhara militia, which has allied with Tigrayan fighters against the government. In early September, the Amhara militia and Tigrayan fighters allied with several other armed groups with the intention of removing the government from the capital, Addis Ababa.
The current alliance comprises seven different armed militia groups. Communications in Tigray and surrounding regions have been cut, making it difficult to establish the scale of the unrest. Both sides disagree on what reignited the fighting, and fears have been sparked that neighbouring Eritrea could be pulled into the conflict. Ethiopia's government has accused Eritrea of supporting armed groups, a claim Asmara has denied.
