By Nana Karikari, Senior Global Affairs Correspondent
A series of loud blasts echoed across the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on Wednesday night. The incident occurred just hours after authorities prohibited drone flights. Federal forces continue to clash with regional fighters in the northern part of the country.
An intelligence service official confirmed that three explosions occurred in three separate locations. The official declined to offer further details. A diplomatic source reported hearing a blast near the defense headquarters at 7 p.m., followed by an emergency siren. Residents living near the same military compound also reported hearing an explosion near a local factory after midnight.
Authorities have not yet clarified whether these blasts stemmed from a deliberate attack or routine military training exercises.
Drone Bans and Expanding Conflict
The explosions followed an official announcement by the National Intelligence and Security Service banning all drone operations in Addis Ababa and the surrounding metropolitan areas. This security measure coincides with intensifying combat in the northern Tigray region. Rebels recently seized control of several towns and the primary regional airport, prompting a complete suspension of commercial flights.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has urged an immediate de-escalation of hostilities. The international body also called for renewed political dialogue between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government and a newly formed coalition of seven opposition groups.
Displacement Fears Grip Tigray Camps
Civilians residing in displacement camps established during the 2020 conflict expressed deep anxiety on Thursday. Residents near the Hitsats camp in northwestern Tigray reported hearing gunfire echoing from miles away. This camp currently shelters roughly 16,000 individuals who have lived there for six years. Many now fear another wave of displacement.
A local resident captured the daily reality of the conflict over the phone, stating, “We hear fighting supported by heavy artillery, and drones hover in the sky every day.”
Economic Crisis Paralyzes Local Life
In Mekelle, the capital of Tigray, ongoing fighting has severely disrupted critical infrastructure, including telecommunications and banking services. Residents note that the breakdown of financial systems has crippled everyday commerce.
Abdelaziz Ahmed, a 35-year-old merchant, described the severe economic strain facing local businesses. He explained, “People cannot buy anything because they lack cash, so we cannot sell. My current stock won’t last more than a month. My only hope is that all these challenges pass and peace is restored in Tigray.”
Transportation networks have also suffered significantly. A local taxi driver, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to security concerns, reported that black-market fuel prices have doubled. He summarized the toll on ordinary citizens by noting, “The war has made life extremely difficult. We don’t even have money for food or rent.”
Uncertain Path Ahead for the Region
As federal authorities assess the security situation in the capital and diplomatic actors push for renewed talks, the immediate trajectory of the conflict remains deeply uncertain. For millions caught across shifting frontlines, the resolution of political deadlocks will determine whether stability can be restored to a region strained by years of recurring crisis.
