Latest news in Ethiopia? September 28th, 2026

Here are the major developments in Ethiopia as of September 28, 2026:

Renewed Armed Conflict in Northern Ethiopia

• A major military escalation erupted across northern Ethiopia following a coordinated offensive by Tigrayan forces (TDF) alongside allied armed groups, effectively threatening the collapse of the 2022 Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement.

  新华网

• Fighting has expanded beyond Tigray into neighboring border districts of Amhara (including North Wollo, Wag Hemra, and areas near Lalibela) and the Afar Region (near Abala and Yalo).

  Wikipedia

• Following the seizure of airports in Mekelle, Shire, and Axum earlier in the offensive, Ethiopian Airlines suspended commercial flights to the region. Phone and internet communication blackouts were subsequently reported across parts of Tigray.

  Wikipedia+ 1

Rebel Alliance and Federal Response

• Seven armed and opposition movements announced a unified coalitionthe Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival (EPFAS)aimed at challenging the federal government led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

  Al Jazeera

• The Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) launched heavy counteroffensives, artillery strikes, and drone operations across contested zones, reporting significant casualties among rebel forces. Meanwhile, Amhara Fano insurgents have claimed captures of federal military officers and equipment in North Wollo.

  Wikipedia+ 1

Diplomatic & Regional Tensions

• The United Nations and the African Union have issued urgent appeals calling for restraint, civilian protection, and an immediate return to dialogue.

  新华网

• Diplomatic friction has spiked in the Horn of Africa after Addis Ababa voiced accusations regarding external backing of opposition factions; the Sudanese Armed Forces formally issued denials regarding allegations of supporting anti-government groups.

  Sudan Tribune

Humanitarian Situation & Domestic Developments

• Humanitarian agencies report that the renewed fighting has already displaced tens of thousands of civilians across Afar, Amhara, and Tigray, complicating relief distribution amid ongoing drought and food insecurity.

  ReliefWeb

• Over the weekend, the religious festival of Meskel was marked across the country, with religious and civic leaders delivering public appeals for peace, unity, and national de-escalation. In Addis Ababa, authorities stepped up security protocols, including restrictions on motorcycle movement.

  borkena.com