Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy says he has ordered the attack on Mek’ele, the capital of the rebellious Tigray region. The ultimatum Abiy had given the insurgents expired last night. After three weeks of fighting, the offensive is entering its final phase, Abiy says.
Mek’ele is surrounded by tanks and other heavy equipment from the government army. Half a million people live there. Abiy called on them to stay indoors and get rid of weapons. The UN says a growing number of people are leaving the city. This also continues after the expiry of the ultimatum.
Abiy says his people will do their utmost to protect civilians, but human rights groups and international organizations fear a bloodbath.
Talking is over
Abiy refuses to negotiate with the leaders in Tigray. This has been urged from abroad. He also rejects mediation by neutral parties. The rebels say to be willing to die for the right to run their region.
The battle that broke out at the beginning of this month may have already claimed thousands of lives. It is not possible to get a good picture of the battle because the internet and other means of communication have been cut off.
Tens of thousands of people have fled. In Sudan alone 40,000 Ethiopian refugees On.
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