A series of explosions were reported in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, on the evening of Wednesday, following the government’s prohibition on drone usage in the city and surrounding regions. An official from the intelligence services, speaking under the condition of anonymity, confirmed the occurrence of three blasts in distinct locations. However, no detailed information regarding the nature or cause of the explosions was provided.

A diplomatic source, who also chose to remain unnamed for safety considerations, reported hearing a blast at 7 pm near the defence headquarters, immediately followed by the sound of sirens. Local residents near the military facility mentioned hearing another blast close to a nearby factory after midnight. The relationship between these explosions and any potential attacks remains unclear, and it is also uncertain whether they were related to military exercises.

Conflict Escalates in Tigray Region

The explosions transpired shortly after the National Intelligence and Security Service implemented a ban on drone operations in Addis Ababa and its surrounding areas. This development coincides with ongoing military confrontations in the northern region of Tigray, where federal forces are engaged in combat against regional forces. Reports indicate that the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has taken control of several towns, along with the principal airport in the region, resulting in a suspension of flights.

The United Nations has articulated a need for de-escalation in the region, urging dialogue between the Ethiopian government and seven opposition groups that have recently united to contest Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s administration. Residents displaced by the conflict that erupted in 2020 have expressed their concerns over renewed hostilities, particularly near the Hitsats refugee camp in northwestern Tigray, which is currently home to around 16,000 individuals.

One refugee from Hitsats described the distressing situation, stating, “We hear fighting supported by heavy artillery, and drones hover in the sky every day.” The account underscores the ongoing volatility in the area and the persistent fear of further displacement among displaced individuals. In the capital of Tigray, Mekelle, citizens reported significant disruptions in communication, banking, and essential services as the fighting continued.

Humanitarian Impact and Economic Strain

Abdelaziz Ahmed, a 35-year-old merchant in Mekelle, highlighted the economic impact of the conflict, noting that the disruptions to banking services have led to a cash shortage. “People cannot buy anything because they lack cash, so we cannot sell. My current stock won’t last more than a month. My only hope is that all these challenges pass and peace is restored in Tigray,” he shared in a recent conversation.

Additionally, a taxi driver who spoke under the condition of anonymity due to safety concerns reported that the price of fuel on the black market has doubled. He described the dire consequences of the conflict, stating, “The war has made life extremely difficult. We don’t even have money for food or rent.” This sentiment reflects the broader economic distress experienced by many in the region.

The recent blasts in Addis Ababa, along with the drone ban, highlight the escalating turmoil within the country, exacerbating uncertainties in the capital and increasing hardships across the northern regions as the fighting shows no signs of abating. The situation continues to evolve, with the potential for further humanitarian crises looming as tensions persist.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share