In a remarks to the 193‑member United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, Ethiopian President Taye Atske‑Selassie Amde defended his government’s conduct in the renewed clash with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). He said Ethiopia has “exercised immense restraint” and made notable progress with its neighbors, even as what he described as “reckless external actors” continue to interfere in the country’s internal affairs.
Renewed fighting shatters fragile peace
Hours before the President’s address, fighting erupted in the northern region of Tigray, breaking a four‑year‑old peace agreement that had held since 2022. Tigray leaders claimed the offensive was a defensive response to what they called aggression by the federal government, while the central authorities portrayed the move as an unprovoked attack.
President’s message to the international community
Selassie Amde warned “forces of destruction and mayhem” that the people of the Horn of Africa have a sacred right to live in peace and prosperity. He urged the international community to respect Ethiopia’s sovereignty and to refrain from actions that could inflame the conflict further.
Context of regional tension
The renewed hostilities come after months of escalating rhetoric between the federal government and the TPLF, raising concerns that the conflict could spill over into neighboring countries such as Eritrea, Sudan and South Sudan. Regional leaders have called for calm and for all parties to return to dialogue, emphasizing the potential humanitarian impact on millions of civilians.
International reactions
Several UN member states expressed alarm at the breakdown of the peace deal, urging both sides to cease hostilities and resume negotiations. Humanitarian organizations warned that renewed fighting could exacerbate an already dire humanitarian situation, with millions in need of aid across the region.
What’s next for Ethiopia?
The President’s appeal for restraint and respect underscores the Ethiopian government’s desire to portray itself as a stabilizing force in a volatile region. While the UN audience listened, the reality on the ground in Tigray remains uncertain, with both sides preparing for further military operations.
Observers note that the conflict’s trajectory will likely influence Ethiopia’s relationships with key partners, including the United States, the European Union and neighboring African states. The President’s statements at the UN may shape diplomatic engagement and aid decisions in the weeks ahead.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
