UN chief gravely concerned by renewed fighting in Ethiopia

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is “gravely concerned” by renewed fighting in Ethiopia’s Tigray, Afar and Amhara regions, according to a statement issued by his spokesperson on Friday.

Guterres urged all parties to “cease hostilities immediately” and resume dialogue under the framework of the Pretoria Agreement, spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.

The UN chief warned that further escalation could undermine regional stability. He also expressed concern over reports of Eritrean forces in Ethiopia.

Guterres reminded states in the region of their obligations under the UN Charter to refrain from threatening or using force against another state’s territorial integrity or political independence, and to respect the principle of non-interference in internal affairs.

He called on countries with influence over the parties to support de-escalation and avoid actions that could fuel the conflict. The statement added that Guterres was ready to offer his good offices.

Ethiopia and Eritrea fought alongside each other during the 2020-2022 Tigray war. Relations between the two countries have since deteriorated, with each government accusing the other of threatening regional stability.

Tensions have also risen over Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the Red Sea, particularly through Eritrea’s port of Assab. Asmara says the port is part of its sovereign territory.