MEKELLE, ETHIOPIA (HRNW) — Human Rights Watch is calling for the protection of civilians after renewed fighting was reported in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region and neighboring areas.
Human Rights Watch said fighting erupted on September 22 between the Ethiopian military and forces aligned with the Tigrayan People’s Liberation Front, Tigray’s main political party.
The organization said the renewed hostilities follow reported clashes and airstrikes in Tigray since August, including incidents around the regional capital, Mekelle.
Human Rights Watch expressed concern that civilians could face renewed abuses following years of conflict and unresolved accountability for alleged violations.
The organization urged all parties to take measures to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure.
It also called for stronger international monitoring of the conduct of the parties to the conflict.
The renewed fighting is occurring in a region that has already experienced extensive humanitarian disruption and displacement linked to earlier conflict.
Human Rights Watch said the history of alleged abuses makes civilian protection particularly important as hostilities increase.
The organization is urging international actors to support mechanisms capable of monitoring violations and documenting alleged abuses.
Human Rights Watch also emphasized that humanitarian and essential civilian infrastructure should be protected from attacks.
The latest developments raise concerns about the impact of renewed violence on communities already affected by conflict and humanitarian needs.
The organization said accountability and civilian protection should remain central to international efforts to address the renewed instability.
Human Rights Watch is calling on the parties to respect international humanitarian law and take immediate measures to reduce risks to civilians.
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Disclaimer
This article is based on Human Rights Watch’s September 24, 2026 statement concerning renewed fighting in northern Ethiopia. Information about military activity and risks to civilians is based on the organization’s reporting and has not been independently verified by HRNW.
