ADDIS ABABA (Dejen Media)— Ethiopian Airlines has canceled numerous flights between Addis Ababa, the nation’s capital, and the northern Amhara region due to reports of ongoing fighting between government forces and the Fano militia army.
The tensions in the region have escalated since April when the government made the decision to integrate all regional special forces into either the national army or the police force. However, the Fano militia army refused to disarm its weapons, leading to clashes with federal troops and exacerbating the situation.
As a result of the escalating conflict, flights to the Amhara region have not been available since Aug. 1. Many major cities in the restive region have fallen to Fano militants.
The Spanish Embassy in Ethiopia issued a travel advisory on Wednesday, urging its citizens to avoid traveling to the Amhara region due to the instability caused by the ongoing conflict. Spanish nationals already in the historic Amhara city of Lalibela were advised to remain in their hotels or homes for their safety.
On Aug. 1, army spokesman Getnet Adane announced that the military would take action against the Fano militia army for disturbing the peace. Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen also expressed deep concern over the security problems in the Amhara region during a statement on Wednesday.
This situation has raised significant concerns about the safety and stability of the region, and authorities are closely monitoring developments as the situation unfolds.
