Ethiopia: UN and AU back Obasanjo to mediate rising Tigray tensions

The United Nations and the African Union have called for renewed mediation in Ethiopia as escalating fighting in the northern Tigray region threatens the 2022 Pretoria peace agreement. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern regarding deteriorating security, specifically noting reports of the seizure and occupation of airports in Mekelle, Axum, and Shire.

Both international organizations have endorsed the efforts of Olusegun Obasanjo, the former Nigerian President and AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa, to re-engage the warring parties. The UN and AU are urging all sides to exercise restraint, protect civilians, and return to direct negotiations under the framework of the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement to prevent a broader conflict that could destabilize the Horn of Africa.