Ethiopia: UN warns of full-scale war as Tigray conflict escalates

United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Türk has expressed deep concern regarding the escalation of hostilities in northern Ethiopia between government forces and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and its allies. The TPLF recently seized control of airports in the Tigray region and launched attacks into the neighboring Afar and Amhara regions, signaling a potential return to full-scale war.

Reports indicate significant civilian impact, including airstrikes by the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) that allegedly hit five schools in Tigray on September 22, resulting in deaths and injuries. Additionally, an artillery strike in the town of Kobo, Amhara, on September 23 is attributed to government forces and reportedly caused civilian fatalities.

Türk has urged all parties to immediately de-escalate tensions to prevent a full-scale conflict and called for the protection of civilians and the guarantee of safe, unhindered access for humanitarian aid.