The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has been monitoring the human rights situation following the conflict that erupted on January 25, 2026, in some areas bordering the Tigray, Amara and Afar regions. At the time of the issuance of this statement, EHRC has learned that the conflict, particularly in Tselemt/Telemt, Megale and Abala, poses serious risks to individuals’ rights to life, bodily integrity, liberty and property.
Residents have been displaced from Alamata town and other areas already under ‘command post’ administration due to fears that the conflict and military movements may escalate into a full-blown war, with restrictions imposed on civilians’ movement.
This conflict represents a set back to the relative peace and stability that had prevailed in these areas following the Pretoria Peace Agreement and exposes residents to renewed risks of further harm, displacement and other serious human rights violations.
Therefore, EHRC urges all parties involved in the conflict to refrain from measures that further exacerbate the situation, to desist from attacks against civilians and civilian objects, and to work with determination to resolve the underlying causes of the conflict through consultation and mutual understanding, in accordance with the law. All measures must comply with human rights principles; in particular, any restrictions on human rights should adhere to the principles of legality, strict necessity and proportionality, in accordance with international and national human rights frameworks. EHRC reiterates its commitment to facilitating the resolution of the conflict through dialogue alongside its regular human rights monitoring and investigation interventions.