ADDIS ABABA (HT): Human Rights Watch has urged the African Union to intensify diplomatic engagement as tensions between Ethiopia’s federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front increase.
Both sides have accused each other of military mobilisation. Major disagreements remain over disputed territories, disarmament and the safe return of people displaced during the 2020–2022 conflict.
Heavy fighting was reported near Ethiopia’s border with Sudan in August, including alleged artillery and drone attacks. Human Rights Watch has also raised concerns about civilian abuses and the alleged forced recruitment of adults and children by Tigrayan forces.
The organisation called on the AU to strengthen mediation and publicly report on compliance with the 2022 Pretoria peace agreement before the situation develops into another major conflict.
