Drone Strike Kills Eight in Tigray IDP Camp
Ethiopian federal forces killed eight civilians in a drone strike on a Sheraro IDP camp amid renewed fighting with the Tigray People's Liberation Front.
A drone strike on an internally displaced persons camp in Sheraro, western Tigray, killed eight civilians, including a child, and wounded six others on Sunday. Witnesses reported that one casualty was a mother killed alongside four children and a grandson. The attack occurred during a surge in violence between federal forces and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) that began on September 23.
Federal forces have since consolidated control over the regional capital, Mekelle, after TPLF leaders and troops abandoned the city. Verification of the casualties has been hindered by communication disruptions and travel restrictions imposed on the media.
The escalation has raised concerns of a wider regional war. The Ethiopian government has accused Eritrea of supporting the TPLF rebels. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali has asserted Ethiopia's right to direct sea access, fueling fears in Eritrea of a potential invasion of the port at Assab. Analysts suggest the northward advance of Ethiopian troops may be preparation for a conflict with the neighboring state.
