Ethiopia fighting escalates in Tigray killing 52 civilians, medic tells the BBC
Fighting in Ethiopia's Tigray region has escalated, resulting in at least 52 civilian deaths and the displacement of tourists in Lalibela. Government forces are reportedly clashing with regional fighters, threatening the stability of the 2022 peace agreement.
Why it matters
The resurgence of conflict in Ethiopia risks regional instability and humanitarian crises, potentially drawing in neighboring Eritrea.
Ethiopia fighting escalates in Tigray killing 52 civilians, medic tells the BBC
At least 52 civilians have been killed during three days of heavy fighting around Alamata in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, hospital sources have told the BBC.
It appears government troops have taken control of the town from regional fighters and intend to push north towards Mekelle, the region's main city. Social media clips show army tanks on Alamata's streets.
Clashes broke out last week after months of tension between the government and the party that controls Tigray, with both accusing each other of violating a 2022 deal that ended a two-year civil war.
Fighting has also affected neighbouring regions with 33 tourists stranded for the last week in Lalibela, a Unesco world heritage site.
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