The ongoing fighting in northern Ethiopia has trapped civilians in the crossfire of hostile forces. While little detail has emerged from the affected areas due to internet and communication service disruptions, reports of increasing civilian casualties are being heard.
Eyewitness Reports
A 22-year-old woman from the small town of Selnoha told reporters that her relatives had taken refuge in their home when suddenly heavy shelling struck their residence. She stated, "I have lost six family members. Those who survived, including the injured, are now trapped in their homes. They have no access to medical services or vehicles, and the nearest medical center is very far away."
Local residents reported that several violent incidents have occurred in recent days in the border area between Tigray and Amhara, with several civilians killed due to heavy fire. The strategic situation on the battlefield is difficult to assess, and it seems that both rebel and government forces have made advances in various areas.
Military Developments and Reactions
Reports indicate that the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) is advancing towards the regional capital, Mekelle. Tigrayan forces are fighting to defend other cities, including Mekoni and Maychu in southern Tigray. Previously, government-affiliated media and militias reported significant ENDF advances in capturing Alamata in southern Tigray.
Alamata, located about 120 kilometers from Mekelle, is situated on a strategic highway and has changed hands several times during the 2020-2022 war. A 40-year-old resident of Alamata told reporters that civilians have been deliberately targeted, adding, "The attacks... were retaliatory actions against the people of Alamata."
On Saturday, in the Alamata market, 11 people were killed and 15 others injured. This attack was designed to maximize civilian casualties during the early hours of the market. Currently, with reports of damage to civilian infrastructure, disruption of essential services, and interference with transportation routes, it is concerning how the situation for residents will unfold not only in Tigray but across northern Ethiopia.
As fighting continues, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has only managed to evacuate about 160 people from Tigray. This includes personnel from the Ethiopian Federal Police, Ethiopian Airlines staff, and African Union observers.
Preparedness for further conflicts among local residents is increasing, especially as reports of attacks on public facilities such as hospitals, schools, and places of worship emerge. According to an Ethiopian lawyer, these actions are classified as war crimes under international law and the country's criminal law.
