Ethiopia urges civilians to join fight against Tigray rebels

ADDIS ABABA, 11 August 2021, (TON): Ethiopia called on "all able-bodied Ethiopians of age" to join the armed forces as the nine-month conflict in Tigray has spread in recent weeks to two neighbouring regions in the north of the country.

A statement from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's office, said "it is now time for all able-bodied Ethiopians to join the defence forces, special forces and militias and show their patriotism."

The conflict in Tigray has seen a dramatic turnaround since late June.

The fighting began last November after the Tigray region forces attacked and killed federal soldiers.

In late June, Abiy Ahmed declared a cease-fire which was rejected by the rebels. They continued their offensive into the neighbouring regions of Amhara in the south and Afar in the east.

Fighting there has displaced an estimated 300,000 people.

Rate this item
(0 votes)
Login to post comments
Go to top