The United States has advised its citizens in three Ethiopian regions to leave if it is safe to do so or shelter in place until security conditions improve as fighting escalates in the country.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

In a security alert issued on Friday, September 25, the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa advised Americans against travelling to the Amhara, Tigray, and Afar regions for any reason, citing reports of active fighting near Lalibela in Amhara.

“U.S. citizens are advised not to travel to the Amhara Region (including Lalibela), the Tigray Region, or the Afar Region for any reason. U.S. citizens in those areas are advised to leave if it is safe to do so or shelter in place until conditions improve,” the alert stated.

Ethiopian Airlines had reportedly suspended flights to and from Lalibela Airport on Thursday, and the embassy said it had no information on when the services would resume.

📌 What You Need to Know

The embassy also reported that internet and telephone services had been disrupted in the Tigray Region.

Americans already in the affected areas were urged to monitor local media and remain in contact with their airlines for updates on flight operations.

They were also advised to make plans for leaving, avoid crowds and review their personal security arrangements.

Canada also expressed concern on September 25 over escalating violence, the reported seizure of Mekelle airport and a telecommunications blackout, while calling for civilians to be protected.

“Canada is deeply concerned by escalating violence in northern Ethiopia, including attacks placing civilians at risk. We are disturbed by the seizure of the Mekelle airport and the telecom blackout. All parties must respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians,” wrote Canada’s Global Affairs department.

The warnings come after an earlier alert over escalating tensions in northern Ethiopia, where reports indicated that Tigray Defence Forces, an armed paramilitary organisation, had taken control of airports in Mekelle, Axum and Shire, disrupting travel .

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke