The Tactics Institute for Security and Defense is deeply concerned about the escalating conflict in Ethiopia’s Amhara region. Frictions between federal forces and the Fano militia have intensified. It exacerbates the country’s instability and deepens the humanitarian crisis.
The Pretoria Agreement, signed in November 2022 to end the conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, left unresolved territorial disputes between the Amhara and Tigrayan communities. The absence of further negotiations has transformed the agreement into a fragile ceasefire, failing to address core grievances.
Between September 25 and October 24, 43 drone attacks and airstrikes killed 196 people, including civilians, and injured 77 across 22 districts in Amhara. Tens of thousands of Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) troops have been deployed to the region, with reports of arrests and crackdowns on local officials accused of collusion with Fano.
The conflict in Amhara risks reigniting ethnic violence across Ethiopia and destabilizing neighbouring regions. Analysts warn of potential spillover effects into Eritrea, Somalia, and Sudan, further complicating the Horn of Africa’s fragile geopolitical landscape.
The Tactics Institute urges all stakeholders to prioritize de-escalation and humanitarian assistance. The Tactics Institute emphasizes that sustainable peace in Ethiopia requires inclusive negotiations, accountability, and concerted efforts to address the root causes of conflict.
