Ilhan Omar expresses strong concern over the situation in Ethiopia, issues urgent call

Washington (Caasimada Online) – U.S. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar has expressed concern over the escalating violence in northern Ethiopia, particularly the security situation in the Tigray region.

In a statement posted on her Twitter account, Ilhan stated that she is deeply worried about the intensifying conflict, citing an incident where she claimed Ethiopian forces attacked a convoy carrying aid to Tigray last week.

“I am deeply concerned about the escalating violence in Ethiopia, including the airstrikes by Ethiopian forces last week against a convoy carrying aid to the Tigray region,” Ilhan said.

Ilhan Omar also referenced the Pretoria agreement of 2022, which ended the fighting in northern Ethiopia, stating that the agreement obligated the parties to cease hostilities and protect civilians.

“The Pretoria agreement of 2022, which ended the fighting in northern Ethiopia, obligated all parties to cease hostilities, protect civilians, and allow humanitarian aid to reach those affected by the crisis,” she said.

She further added, “They must establish a comprehensive interim justice process to hold accountable those responsible for abuses and violations of human rights. Unfortunately, this agreement has not been fully upheld, and the agreed-upon conditions have not been implemented.”

She also indicated that the new conflict poses a threat to Ethiopia and the broader region, noting that the Horn of Africa is still facing the repercussions of the previous war in northern Ethiopia and the conflict in Sudan.

“This escalating conflict poses a threat to the entire country and the region as a whole, which is still grappling with the aftermath of the previous war in northern Ethiopia and the severe conflict in Sudan. Ordinary civilians are the ones most affected by the crisis,” she stated in her statement.

The parliamentarian called on all parties in Ethiopia to urgently return to peace talks and to fulfill the obligations arising from the Pretoria Agreement.

“We urge all parties in Ethiopia to urgently return to peace talks and to fulfill their obligations under the Pretoria Agreement. Neighboring countries of Ethiopia and the international community must work to de-escalate tensions and facilitate peace,” she added.

Ilhan finally called on the U.S. Department of State to work with the relevant parties to end the violence and hold accountable those responsible for the violations.

“The people of Ethiopia deserve peace and justice,” said Ilhan Omar.