#Somalia: #AU mission confirms killing of over 50 #al-Shabab fighters in southern #Somalia
The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) confirmed on Sunday that its troops, backed by Somali government forces, killed more than 50 al-Shabab militants during a fierce fighting in Bariire town in southern Somalia on Friday.
In a statement issued in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, AUSSOM also refuted media reports alleging heavy casualties among its soldiers in Bariire.
"AUSSOM wishes to clarify that its forces, in coordination with the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), initiated a major offensive to recapture Bariire town on Aug. 1," the AU mission said, responding to claims made by al-Shabab regarding the destruction of AU-owned armored personnel carriers and the retreat of AUSSOM troops following intense fighting in Bariire.
"The joint military operation has resulted in substantial losses for the terrorist group, with over 50 al-Shabab militants killed and many others sustaining serious injuries," AUSSOM said.
The agriculturally rich Bariire town, which lies about 60 km southwest of Mogadishu, is one of the strategic areas located in the Lower Shabelle region along the Shabelle River.
https://english.news.cn/africa/20250803/b88fc81ab43940ae82dab71fc3d3f306/c.html
The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) confirmed on Sunday that its troops, backed by Somali government forces, killed more than 50 al-Shabab militants during a fierce fighting in Bariire town in southern Somalia on Friday.
In a statement issued in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, AUSSOM also refuted media reports alleging heavy casualties among its soldiers in Bariire.
"AUSSOM wishes to clarify that its forces, in coordination with the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), initiated a major offensive to recapture Bariire town on Aug. 1," the AU mission said, responding to claims made by al-Shabab regarding the destruction of AU-owned armored personnel carriers and the retreat of AUSSOM troops following intense fighting in Bariire.
"The joint military operation has resulted in substantial losses for the terrorist group, with over 50 al-Shabab militants killed and many others sustaining serious injuries," AUSSOM said.
The agriculturally rich Bariire town, which lies about 60 km southwest of Mogadishu, is one of the strategic areas located in the Lower Shabelle region along the Shabelle River.
https://english.news.cn/africa/20250803/b88fc81ab43940ae82dab71fc3d3f306/c.html
english.news.cn
AU mission confirms killing of over 50 al-Shabab fighters in southern Somalia
MOGADISHU, Aug. 3 (Xinhua) -- The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) confirmed on Sunday that its troops, backed by Somali government forces, killed more than 50 al-Shabab militants during a fierce fighting in Bariire town…
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#Sudan: #RSF gives control of #Darfur camp to #Colombian mercenaries, spokesman says
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have handed over control of the massive Zamzam camp for displaced people to Colombian mercenaries, a camp spokesman alleged on Sunday, months after the RSF seized the area.
The allegation follows the broadcast of video clips by the Sudanese army, purportedly recovered from a dead fighter’s phone, which appear to show Spanish-speaking mercenaries inside Zamzam camp. The army claimed the men were Colombian nationals killed in recent battles for El Fasher.
He described seeing armed, Spanish-speaking groups moving freely “among the rubble of homes and the unburied bodies of victims,” calling it a war crime and part of a conspiracy to hide a massacre.
“It is a war of annihilation against unarmed civilians, followed by a systematic occupation with the help of foreign mercenaries,” he said.
https://sudantribune.com/article303519/
The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have handed over control of the massive Zamzam camp for displaced people to Colombian mercenaries, a camp spokesman alleged on Sunday, months after the RSF seized the area.
The allegation follows the broadcast of video clips by the Sudanese army, purportedly recovered from a dead fighter’s phone, which appear to show Spanish-speaking mercenaries inside Zamzam camp. The army claimed the men were Colombian nationals killed in recent battles for El Fasher.
He described seeing armed, Spanish-speaking groups moving freely “among the rubble of homes and the unburied bodies of victims,” calling it a war crime and part of a conspiracy to hide a massacre.
“It is a war of annihilation against unarmed civilians, followed by a systematic occupation with the help of foreign mercenaries,” he said.
https://sudantribune.com/article303519/
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#Ethiopia sentences five to #death for human trafficking offenses
The Ministry of Justice has announced that five individuals have been sentenced to death for their involvement in human trafficking and illegal border crossings.
Belayihun Yirga, State Minister of Justice, told local media that the sentences were handed down under Proclamation No. 1178, which prescribes penalties ranging from 25 years’ imprisonment to life and capital punishment for grave human trafficking offenses.
According to Belayihun, the ruling reflects the government’s growing concern over the rise of organized transnational crimes, including human trafficking, which continues to claim the lives of many Ethiopians attempting to migrate through irregular means.
He said efforts are underway to raise public awareness, strengthen inter-regional coordination, and develop legal frameworks to curb illegal migration.
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1952290204930224423
The Ministry of Justice has announced that five individuals have been sentenced to death for their involvement in human trafficking and illegal border crossings.
Belayihun Yirga, State Minister of Justice, told local media that the sentences were handed down under Proclamation No. 1178, which prescribes penalties ranging from 25 years’ imprisonment to life and capital punishment for grave human trafficking offenses.
According to Belayihun, the ruling reflects the government’s growing concern over the rise of organized transnational crimes, including human trafficking, which continues to claim the lives of many Ethiopians attempting to migrate through irregular means.
He said efforts are underway to raise public awareness, strengthen inter-regional coordination, and develop legal frameworks to curb illegal migration.
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1952290204930224423
#Commentary: Beyond Non-Recognition: How #Taiwan–Somaliland maritime pact challenges diplomatic norms amid global hegemonies
Last month, Taiwan and #Somaliland, both de facto states lacking widespread international recognition, formalized a maritime security agreement in #Taipei. This accord, which emphasizes cooperation in areas such as maritime safety and personnel training, represents a significant development in their unconventional diplomatic alliance. Gulaid Yusuf Idaan, the author of this commentary, argues that the agreement is reshaping diplomatic norms and challenging the conventional belief that international recognition is a “prerequisite for a state to function as a sovereign actor.”
He explains that both Taiwan and Somaliland are excluded from major international institutions due to persistent geopolitical pressures. Taiwan's isolation is a direct result of #China's enforcement of the One China Policy, while Somaliland's lack of recognition stems from the "One #Somalia" doctrine. Despite these constraints, both are asserting their right to international engagement, forging what the author refers to as "post-sovereign diplomacy"—a form of collaboration that intentionally defies the norms of formal state recognition.
According to the article, this alliance demonstrates the increasing relevance of informal and para-diplomacy, which are typically utilized by subnational entities, although these tools are now being repurposed by quasi-states to advance shared security and development goals. Idaan writes, "This partnership reflects a hybrid approach to diplomacy driven by shared governance capacities and a mutual interest in circumventing the constraints imposed by global recognition hierarchies."
While the pact introduces a new diplomatic model, the author acknowledges that significant challenges persist as both Taiwan and Somaliland face geopolitical pressure from larger powers, with “China's influence over Taiwan” and “Somalia's territorial claims over Somaliland” being key concerns. Nevertheless, he contends that the maritime pact shows how unrecognized states can reshape diplomacy through “resilience, shared values, and strategic cooperation,” offering a model for others on the margins of the international system.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51647
Last month, Taiwan and #Somaliland, both de facto states lacking widespread international recognition, formalized a maritime security agreement in #Taipei. This accord, which emphasizes cooperation in areas such as maritime safety and personnel training, represents a significant development in their unconventional diplomatic alliance. Gulaid Yusuf Idaan, the author of this commentary, argues that the agreement is reshaping diplomatic norms and challenging the conventional belief that international recognition is a “prerequisite for a state to function as a sovereign actor.”
He explains that both Taiwan and Somaliland are excluded from major international institutions due to persistent geopolitical pressures. Taiwan's isolation is a direct result of #China's enforcement of the One China Policy, while Somaliland's lack of recognition stems from the "One #Somalia" doctrine. Despite these constraints, both are asserting their right to international engagement, forging what the author refers to as "post-sovereign diplomacy"—a form of collaboration that intentionally defies the norms of formal state recognition.
According to the article, this alliance demonstrates the increasing relevance of informal and para-diplomacy, which are typically utilized by subnational entities, although these tools are now being repurposed by quasi-states to advance shared security and development goals. Idaan writes, "This partnership reflects a hybrid approach to diplomacy driven by shared governance capacities and a mutual interest in circumventing the constraints imposed by global recognition hierarchies."
While the pact introduces a new diplomatic model, the author acknowledges that significant challenges persist as both Taiwan and Somaliland face geopolitical pressure from larger powers, with “China's influence over Taiwan” and “Somalia's territorial claims over Somaliland” being key concerns. Nevertheless, he contends that the maritime pact shows how unrecognized states can reshape diplomacy through “resilience, shared values, and strategic cooperation,” offering a model for others on the margins of the international system.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51647
Addis Standard
Beyond Non-Recognition: How Taiwan–Somaliland maritime pact challenges diplomatic norms amid global hegemonies - Addis Standard
Beyond Non-Recognition: How Taiwan–Somaliland maritime pact challenges diplomatic norms amid global hegemonies Addis Standard Politics -
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‘On the precipice of defeat’: Former defense chiefs demand end to #Gaza war
Over a dozen ex-officials who held key posts say fighting in Strip no longer serves any attainable military goal but only political interests; letter to Trump urges him to intervene
More than a dozen former senior Israeli security officials issued a joint video message Sunday with a call to end the war in Gaza, arguing that #Israel has racked up more losses than victories and that the fighting has dragged on for political reasons rather than strategic military need.
Among the 19 retired IDF chiefs of staff, intelligence chiefs, Shin Bet and Mossad directors, and police commissioners backing the clip were former prime minister and IDF chief Ehud Barak and former IDF chiefs of staff Moshe Ya’alon and Dan Halutz; ex-Shin Bet directors Nadav Argaman, Yoram Cohen, Ami Ayalon, Yaakov Peri and Carmi Gillon; ex-Mossad chiefs Tamir Pardo, Efraim Halevy and Danny Yatom; and former Israel Police commissioners Dudi Cohen, Moshe Karadi, Rafi Peled and Assaf Hefetz.
Many of those featured in the video have previously criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the coalition’s handling of the war.
“Each of these people sat in cabinet meetings, operated in the inner circles, attended all the most sensitive decision-making processes,” a voiceover at the start of the video says by way of introduction. “Together, they have more than a thousand years’ experience in national security and diplomacy.”
Government critics say Netanyahu is avoiding agreeing on a permanent end to the war and the return of the 50 hostages still in captivity in order to preserve his coalition, which relies on far-right parties that insist on continuing the fight and whose leaders have voiced their desire to permanently conquer Gaza, push out its residents, and resettle it with Jews.
In the English-subnoscriptd video, the men argue that the fighting in Gaza could have ended long ago and demand that Israel end the war with a permanent ceasefire and comprehensive hostage deal that will see the release of all 50 remaining hostages in one fell swoop.
“We are on the precipice of defeat,” opined former Mossad director Tamir Pardo.
“What the world sees today is of our own creation,” he said of the dire humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip. “We are hiding behind a lie that we wrought. This lie was sold to the Israeli public, and the world has long since understood that it doesn’t reflect the real picture.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/on-the-precipice-of-defeat-former-defense-chiefs-demand-end-to-gaza-war/
Over a dozen ex-officials who held key posts say fighting in Strip no longer serves any attainable military goal but only political interests; letter to Trump urges him to intervene
More than a dozen former senior Israeli security officials issued a joint video message Sunday with a call to end the war in Gaza, arguing that #Israel has racked up more losses than victories and that the fighting has dragged on for political reasons rather than strategic military need.
Among the 19 retired IDF chiefs of staff, intelligence chiefs, Shin Bet and Mossad directors, and police commissioners backing the clip were former prime minister and IDF chief Ehud Barak and former IDF chiefs of staff Moshe Ya’alon and Dan Halutz; ex-Shin Bet directors Nadav Argaman, Yoram Cohen, Ami Ayalon, Yaakov Peri and Carmi Gillon; ex-Mossad chiefs Tamir Pardo, Efraim Halevy and Danny Yatom; and former Israel Police commissioners Dudi Cohen, Moshe Karadi, Rafi Peled and Assaf Hefetz.
Many of those featured in the video have previously criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the coalition’s handling of the war.
“Each of these people sat in cabinet meetings, operated in the inner circles, attended all the most sensitive decision-making processes,” a voiceover at the start of the video says by way of introduction. “Together, they have more than a thousand years’ experience in national security and diplomacy.”
Government critics say Netanyahu is avoiding agreeing on a permanent end to the war and the return of the 50 hostages still in captivity in order to preserve his coalition, which relies on far-right parties that insist on continuing the fight and whose leaders have voiced their desire to permanently conquer Gaza, push out its residents, and resettle it with Jews.
In the English-subnoscriptd video, the men argue that the fighting in Gaza could have ended long ago and demand that Israel end the war with a permanent ceasefire and comprehensive hostage deal that will see the release of all 50 remaining hostages in one fell swoop.
“We are on the precipice of defeat,” opined former Mossad director Tamir Pardo.
“What the world sees today is of our own creation,” he said of the dire humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip. “We are hiding behind a lie that we wrought. This lie was sold to the Israeli public, and the world has long since understood that it doesn’t reflect the real picture.
https://www.timesofisrael.com/on-the-precipice-of-defeat-former-defense-chiefs-demand-end-to-gaza-war/
The Times of Israel
‘On the precipice of defeat’: 19 former defense chiefs demand end to Gaza war
Over a dozen ex-officials who held key posts say fighting in Strip no longer serves any attainable military goal but only political interests; letter to Trump urges him to intervene
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#Weather shocks, #conflict-related tensions sustain high #food assistance needs across #Ethiopia: FEWS NET
Acute food insecurity remains widespread across Ethiopia, driven by a combination of weather-related shocks, failed seasonal rains, and the lingering impacts of conflict, according to the latest update by the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET).
Despite earlier projections of modest improvements in food security following the anticipated 2024 meher harvest, millions of people – particularly in Tigray, Amhara, Afar, and drought-affected areas of Somali and Oromia regions – remain in IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) or worse. The ongoing lean season has pushed food assistance needs to peak levels, which are expected to remain elevated through late 2025.
The report highlights severe agricultural losses resulting from the failure of belg rains in central and eastern Oromia, southern Tigray, and eastern Amhara, where crop production has fallen to just 10% and 26% of the average in Tigray and Amhara, respectively.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51651
Acute food insecurity remains widespread across Ethiopia, driven by a combination of weather-related shocks, failed seasonal rains, and the lingering impacts of conflict, according to the latest update by the Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWS NET).
Despite earlier projections of modest improvements in food security following the anticipated 2024 meher harvest, millions of people – particularly in Tigray, Amhara, Afar, and drought-affected areas of Somali and Oromia regions – remain in IPC Phase 3 (Crisis) or worse. The ongoing lean season has pushed food assistance needs to peak levels, which are expected to remain elevated through late 2025.
The report highlights severe agricultural losses resulting from the failure of belg rains in central and eastern Oromia, southern Tigray, and eastern Amhara, where crop production has fallen to just 10% and 26% of the average in Tigray and Amhara, respectively.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51651
Addis Standard
Weather shocks, conflict-related tensions sustain high food assistance needs across Ethiopia: FEWS NET - Addis Standard
Weather shocks, conflict-related tensions sustain high food assistance needs across Ethiopia: FEWS NET Addis Standard News -
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#Ethiopian Meteorology Institute warns of #heavy #rainfall, flash #floods in August
The Ethiopian Meteorology Institute has warned that several parts of the country are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall in August, with the potential for hailstorms and flash floods.
The Institute stated that areas in the northeast, north, central, southwest, and western regions will likely receive significant rainfall. It further cautioned that cloud formations resulting from solar heating could produce heavy downpours accompanied by hailstones, increasing the risk of localized flash flooding.
Additional risks linked to persistent high humidity were also noted, including waterlogging in low-lying farmlands and the likelihood of landslides and flooding in steep, highland areas.
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1952359997540622529
The Ethiopian Meteorology Institute has warned that several parts of the country are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall in August, with the potential for hailstorms and flash floods.
The Institute stated that areas in the northeast, north, central, southwest, and western regions will likely receive significant rainfall. It further cautioned that cloud formations resulting from solar heating could produce heavy downpours accompanied by hailstones, increasing the risk of localized flash flooding.
Additional risks linked to persistent high humidity were also noted, including waterlogging in low-lying farmlands and the likelihood of landslides and flooding in steep, highland areas.
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1952359997540622529
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#EHRC urges respect for #human rights, calls on #CoHA signatories to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has called on all parties involved in the ongoing conflicts in the Amhara and Oromia regions—including the federal government and armed groups—to uphold international human rights and humanitarian law and engage in political dialogue to resolve disputes.
The call was made during a press briefing held for the release of EHRC’s annual report. Birhanu Adelo, Chief Commissioner of EHRC, urged signatories of the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and actions that risk undermining the fragile peace process. “Events and conditions that have hindered the full implementation of the Pretoria agreement and endangered human rights must be corrected,” he said.
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The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has called on all parties involved in the ongoing conflicts in the Amhara and Oromia regions—including the federal government and armed groups—to uphold international human rights and humanitarian law and engage in political dialogue to resolve disputes.
The call was made during a press briefing held for the release of EHRC’s annual report. Birhanu Adelo, Chief Commissioner of EHRC, urged signatories of the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and actions that risk undermining the fragile peace process. “Events and conditions that have hindered the full implementation of the Pretoria agreement and endangered human rights must be corrected,” he said.
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#Ethiopian: Right to #life in ‘#critical’ state amid #conflicts, service collapse, and #humanitarian crises: Rights Commission
Ethiopians right to life is in a “critical” state due to the combined effects of ongoing armed conflicts, natural disasters, and a near-total breakdown of public services, according to the latest annual report by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), released today.
Covering the period from June 2024 to June 2025, the 152-page report documents extensive violations of fundamental rights, including extrajudicial killings, abductions, physical harm, and widespread destruction of property. Civilians, particularly in conflict-affected areas, remain the primary victims of violence perpetrated by government forces, local armed groups, unidentified assailants, and inter-communal clashes.
In Amhara, the EHRC reported continued abuses in the conflict between federal forces and Fano militia, including extrajudicial killings and home burnings by government forces, and retaliatory attacks and looting by Fano. Similar violations were documented in Oromia, where both government forces and OLA militants were implicated in killings, abductions, and infrastructure destruction. OLA fighters reportedly extorted and killed passengers on buses headed to Addis Abeba. The report also cited civilian casualties from armed attacks in Benishangul-Gumuz, Central Ethiopia, and cross-border raids by Murle militants in Gambella.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51657
Ethiopians right to life is in a “critical” state due to the combined effects of ongoing armed conflicts, natural disasters, and a near-total breakdown of public services, according to the latest annual report by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), released today.
Covering the period from June 2024 to June 2025, the 152-page report documents extensive violations of fundamental rights, including extrajudicial killings, abductions, physical harm, and widespread destruction of property. Civilians, particularly in conflict-affected areas, remain the primary victims of violence perpetrated by government forces, local armed groups, unidentified assailants, and inter-communal clashes.
In Amhara, the EHRC reported continued abuses in the conflict between federal forces and Fano militia, including extrajudicial killings and home burnings by government forces, and retaliatory attacks and looting by Fano. Similar violations were documented in Oromia, where both government forces and OLA militants were implicated in killings, abductions, and infrastructure destruction. OLA fighters reportedly extorted and killed passengers on buses headed to Addis Abeba. The report also cited civilian casualties from armed attacks in Benishangul-Gumuz, Central Ethiopia, and cross-border raids by Murle militants in Gambella.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51657
Addis Standard
News: Right to life in ‘critical’ state amid conflicts, service collapse, and humanitarian crises: Rights Commission - Addis Standard
News: Right to life in ‘critical’ state amid conflicts, service collapse, and humanitarian crises: Rights Commission Addis Standard News -
#Ethiopia: Foreign Ministry mourns deaths of over 60 #Ethiopians in maritime tragedy off #Yemeni coast
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed profound sorrow over the deaths of more than 60 Ethiopian nationals who perished in a maritime tragedy off the coast of Yemen.
In a statement issued Monday, the Ministry said it is working closely with international and regional partners to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the victims were among a group of migrants attempting to cross the Gulf of Aden when their vessel capsized near Yemen’s Abyan Governorate.
Extending condolences to the families of the deceased, the Ministry urged Ethiopian citizens to refrain from using irregular migration routes and instead seek overseas employment through legal and authorized channels.
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1952440901470437769
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed profound sorrow over the deaths of more than 60 Ethiopian nationals who perished in a maritime tragedy off the coast of Yemen.
In a statement issued Monday, the Ministry said it is working closely with international and regional partners to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that the victims were among a group of migrants attempting to cross the Gulf of Aden when their vessel capsized near Yemen’s Abyan Governorate.
Extending condolences to the families of the deceased, the Ministry urged Ethiopian citizens to refrain from using irregular migration routes and instead seek overseas employment through legal and authorized channels.
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1952440901470437769
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Faced with #hardships at home, #Ethiopians risk dangerous seas for a better life elsewhere
The deadly shipwreck in waters off Yemen’s coast over the weekend is weighing heavily on the hearts of many in Ethiopia. Twelve migrants on the boat that carried 154 Ethiopians survived the tragedy — at least 68 died and 74 remain missing .
When Solomon Gebremichael heard about Sunday’s disaster, it brought back heartbreaking memories — he had lost a close friend and a brother to illegal migration years ago.
“I understand the pain all too well,” Gebremichael told The Associated Press at his home in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa.
Although Ethiopia has been relatively stable since the war in the country's Tigray region ended in 2022 , youth unemployment is currently at over 20%, leading many to risk dangerous waters trying to reach the wealthy Gulf Arab countries , seeking a better life elsewhere.
Mesel Kindeya made the crossing in 2016 via the same sea route as the boat that capsized on Sunday, traveling without papers on harrowing journeys arranged by smugglers from Ethiopia to Saudi Arabia.
“We could barely breathe,” she remembers of her own sea crossing. “Speaking up could get us thrown overboard by smugglers. I deeply regret risking my life, thinking it would improve my situation.”
Kindeya made it to Saudi Arabia and worked as a maid for six months, before she was captured by authorities, and imprisoned for eight months. By the time she was deported back to Ethiopia, she had barely managed to earn back the initial cost of her journey.
“Despite the hardships of life, illegal immigration is just not a solution,” she says.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/08/04/ethiopia-yemen-migration-shipwreck/74892a0c-7163-11f0-84e0-485bb531abeb_story.html
The deadly shipwreck in waters off Yemen’s coast over the weekend is weighing heavily on the hearts of many in Ethiopia. Twelve migrants on the boat that carried 154 Ethiopians survived the tragedy — at least 68 died and 74 remain missing .
When Solomon Gebremichael heard about Sunday’s disaster, it brought back heartbreaking memories — he had lost a close friend and a brother to illegal migration years ago.
“I understand the pain all too well,” Gebremichael told The Associated Press at his home in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa.
Although Ethiopia has been relatively stable since the war in the country's Tigray region ended in 2022 , youth unemployment is currently at over 20%, leading many to risk dangerous waters trying to reach the wealthy Gulf Arab countries , seeking a better life elsewhere.
Mesel Kindeya made the crossing in 2016 via the same sea route as the boat that capsized on Sunday, traveling without papers on harrowing journeys arranged by smugglers from Ethiopia to Saudi Arabia.
“We could barely breathe,” she remembers of her own sea crossing. “Speaking up could get us thrown overboard by smugglers. I deeply regret risking my life, thinking it would improve my situation.”
Kindeya made it to Saudi Arabia and worked as a maid for six months, before she was captured by authorities, and imprisoned for eight months. By the time she was deported back to Ethiopia, she had barely managed to earn back the initial cost of her journey.
“Despite the hardships of life, illegal immigration is just not a solution,” she says.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/08/04/ethiopia-yemen-migration-shipwreck/74892a0c-7163-11f0-84e0-485bb531abeb_story.html
The Washington Post
Faced with hardships at home, Ethiopians risk dangerous seas for a better life elsewhere
The deadly shipwreck in waters off Yemen’s coast over the weekend is weighing heavily on the hearts of many in Ethiopia
#Ethiopia’s #Tigray Temptation
Only #America can prevent a new #War in the Horn of Africa
Over the past 20 months, as multiple wars have swept across the Middle East, the southern end of the Red Sea has become a source of international concern. In the early months of 2025 alone, the United States spent billions of dollars on a high-profile military campaign against the Houthis in Yemen, who have continued to attack international shipping in this crucial body of water in response to Israel’s war in Gaza. Yet regional and world powers have largely ignored a volatile crisis on the Red Sea’s other coast, along the Horn of Africa, that could soon erupt into a major conflagration.
If fighting breaks out between Ethiopia and Eritrea, Tigray will again be the main battleground, with potentially catastrophic consequences—for Tigray and for the entire Horn of Africa. Both sides have large, well-equipped armies and are prepared to inflict and absorb casualties on a vast scale. A conflict would tear up what remains of a fragile peace and security architecture in the region, and could draw in Somalia and Sudan in a regionwide vortex of violence. Further fueling instability is the rival meddling of leading Middle Eastern powers, with the United Arab Emirates supporting Ethiopia and Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey leaning toward Eritrea.
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/ethiopia/ethiopias-tigray-temptation
Only #America can prevent a new #War in the Horn of Africa
Over the past 20 months, as multiple wars have swept across the Middle East, the southern end of the Red Sea has become a source of international concern. In the early months of 2025 alone, the United States spent billions of dollars on a high-profile military campaign against the Houthis in Yemen, who have continued to attack international shipping in this crucial body of water in response to Israel’s war in Gaza. Yet regional and world powers have largely ignored a volatile crisis on the Red Sea’s other coast, along the Horn of Africa, that could soon erupt into a major conflagration.
If fighting breaks out between Ethiopia and Eritrea, Tigray will again be the main battleground, with potentially catastrophic consequences—for Tigray and for the entire Horn of Africa. Both sides have large, well-equipped armies and are prepared to inflict and absorb casualties on a vast scale. A conflict would tear up what remains of a fragile peace and security architecture in the region, and could draw in Somalia and Sudan in a regionwide vortex of violence. Further fueling instability is the rival meddling of leading Middle Eastern powers, with the United Arab Emirates supporting Ethiopia and Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey leaning toward Eritrea.
https://www.foreignaffairs.com/ethiopia/ethiopias-tigray-temptation
Foreign Affairs
Ethiopia’s Tigray Temptation
Only America can prevent a new war in the Horn of Africa.
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#Foreign Ministry welcomes appointment of Girma Amente as #AU’s Permanent Representative to #UN Office, #WTO
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia has welcomed the appointment of Girma Amente (PhD) as the African Union’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office and the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva.
In a statement issued on 04 August, the ministry commended the decision by Mahmoud Ali Youssef, African Union Commission Chairperson, describing the appointment as a reflection of the AU’s recognition of Ethiopia’s role in representing the continent on global platforms.
The ministry expressed full confidence in Girma Amente’s capacity to serve in the new position, citing his “extensive leadership experience.”
Girma served as Ethiopia’s Minister of Agriculture from January 2023 to August 2025.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia has welcomed the appointment of Girma Amente (PhD) as the African Union’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office and the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva.
In a statement issued on 04 August, the ministry commended the decision by Mahmoud Ali Youssef, African Union Commission Chairperson, describing the appointment as a reflection of the AU’s recognition of Ethiopia’s role in representing the continent on global platforms.
The ministry expressed full confidence in Girma Amente’s capacity to serve in the new position, citing his “extensive leadership experience.”
Girma served as Ethiopia’s Minister of Agriculture from January 2023 to August 2025.
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#Tigray interim president warns #Simret Party against armed activity, urges political dialogue
Lt. Gen. Tadesse Worede, president of the Tigray Interim Administration, has cautioned the Simret Party, the newly formed political party led by Getachew Reda, PM Abiy Ahmed’s advisor on East African Affairs, against involvement in armed struggle, urging the group to commit to peaceful political engagement.
In an interview with local media, Lt. Gen. Tadesse confirmed reports that the Simret Party is preparing to open offices in Tigray, stating that no formal request has been received. “If they complete the required procedures with the election board, they can proceed,” he said.
However, he expressed concern over the party’s alleged ties to armed groups in Afar, warning, “They must not act as spoilers.” Citing a recent deadly clash near the border, Lt. Gen. Tadesse called for political dialogue and restraint and called on federal and regional actors to support efforts to resolve tensions through peaceful means.
Lt. Gen. Tadesse Worede, president of the Tigray Interim Administration, has cautioned the Simret Party, the newly formed political party led by Getachew Reda, PM Abiy Ahmed’s advisor on East African Affairs, against involvement in armed struggle, urging the group to commit to peaceful political engagement.
In an interview with local media, Lt. Gen. Tadesse confirmed reports that the Simret Party is preparing to open offices in Tigray, stating that no formal request has been received. “If they complete the required procedures with the election board, they can proceed,” he said.
However, he expressed concern over the party’s alleged ties to armed groups in Afar, warning, “They must not act as spoilers.” Citing a recent deadly clash near the border, Lt. Gen. Tadesse called for political dialogue and restraint and called on federal and regional actors to support efforts to resolve tensions through peaceful means.
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#Ethiopian Airlines #denies claims of proposed wet-lease agreement with #Russian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines has firmly denied reports alleging that it has entered into an agreement to lease aircraft or spare parts to a Russian airline, calling the claims “completely false.”
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, dismissed the allegations during a press briefing held earlier today at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Abeba, where he presented the company’s performance for the 2024/2025 Ethiopian fiscal year.
Recent media reports claimed that a Russian delegation led by Trade Commissioner Yaroslav V. Tarasyuk met with Ethiopia's Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) on 29 July to propose wet-leasing aircraft from Ethiopian Airlines and collaborating on aircraft maintenance.
Citing Ethiopia’s Boeing-accredited Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, the media reports claimed that the Russian delegation also expressed interest in supplying Russian-made navigational equipment, expanding MRO facilities in Ethiopia, and finalizing a new bilateral air transport agreement.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51663
Ethiopian Airlines has firmly denied reports alleging that it has entered into an agreement to lease aircraft or spare parts to a Russian airline, calling the claims “completely false.”
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, dismissed the allegations during a press briefing held earlier today at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Abeba, where he presented the company’s performance for the 2024/2025 Ethiopian fiscal year.
Recent media reports claimed that a Russian delegation led by Trade Commissioner Yaroslav V. Tarasyuk met with Ethiopia's Civil Aviation Authority (ECAA) on 29 July to propose wet-leasing aircraft from Ethiopian Airlines and collaborating on aircraft maintenance.
Citing Ethiopia’s Boeing-accredited Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, the media reports claimed that the Russian delegation also expressed interest in supplying Russian-made navigational equipment, expanding MRO facilities in Ethiopia, and finalizing a new bilateral air transport agreement.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51663
Addis Standard
Ethiopian Airlines denies claims of proposed wet-lease agreement with Russian Airlines - Addis Standard
Ethiopian Airlines denies claims of proposed wet-lease agreement with Russian Airlines Addis Standard News -
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#Op_ed: From #Tigray to #Gaza: Rising use of aid blockades as war strategy, global response under scrutiny
“Food is back on the battlefield, and food security is no longer just a humanitarian issue: it is now a systematic, political, and strategic problem,” writes Emanuele Rossi, the author of this op-ed. He highlights how the increasing use of aid blockades as a wartime strategy is causing global alarm, noting that global leaders and humanitarian agencies at the recent #UN Food Systems Summit in #Addis_Abeba warned that this alarming trend threatens both peace and human dignity.
The author cites the war in Tigray, which ended in 2022, as one telling example. He recalls how the international community repeatedly raised concerns over the blockade of humanitarian assistance, which placed well over five million people at risk. According to Rossi, this is far from an isolated incident. He notes that #Russia has been accused of employing starvation as a weapon in the besieged Ukrainian city of #Mariupol, while similar strategies have been documented in #Syria, #South_Sudan, and #Yemen.
Furthermore, Rossi contends, “The link between conflict and hunger is currently most visible in Gaza.” He refers to a recent warning by the World Health Organization (#WHO) that the risk of famine in Gaza is rising due to the “deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid.” The report reveals that the entire population of 2.1 million people is suffering from “prolonged food shortages,” with nearly half a million facing “catastrophic levels of hunger, acute malnutrition, starvation, illness, and death.”
The author emphasizes that “food is a right, not a privilege,” arguing that as hunger is increasingly used as an instrument of war and political leverage, the global community must confront it as both a moral responsibility and a geopolitical priority. Rossi concludes by stating, "Ensuring the right to food is a collective duty, central to the future stability of the global order."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51660
“Food is back on the battlefield, and food security is no longer just a humanitarian issue: it is now a systematic, political, and strategic problem,” writes Emanuele Rossi, the author of this op-ed. He highlights how the increasing use of aid blockades as a wartime strategy is causing global alarm, noting that global leaders and humanitarian agencies at the recent #UN Food Systems Summit in #Addis_Abeba warned that this alarming trend threatens both peace and human dignity.
The author cites the war in Tigray, which ended in 2022, as one telling example. He recalls how the international community repeatedly raised concerns over the blockade of humanitarian assistance, which placed well over five million people at risk. According to Rossi, this is far from an isolated incident. He notes that #Russia has been accused of employing starvation as a weapon in the besieged Ukrainian city of #Mariupol, while similar strategies have been documented in #Syria, #South_Sudan, and #Yemen.
Furthermore, Rossi contends, “The link between conflict and hunger is currently most visible in Gaza.” He refers to a recent warning by the World Health Organization (#WHO) that the risk of famine in Gaza is rising due to the “deliberate obstruction of humanitarian aid.” The report reveals that the entire population of 2.1 million people is suffering from “prolonged food shortages,” with nearly half a million facing “catastrophic levels of hunger, acute malnutrition, starvation, illness, and death.”
The author emphasizes that “food is a right, not a privilege,” arguing that as hunger is increasingly used as an instrument of war and political leverage, the global community must confront it as both a moral responsibility and a geopolitical priority. Rossi concludes by stating, "Ensuring the right to food is a collective duty, central to the future stability of the global order."
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51660
Addis Standard
From Tigray to Gaza: Rising use of aid blockades as war strategy, global response under scrutiny - Addis Standard
From Tigray to Gaza: Rising use of aid blockades as war strategy, global response under scrutiny Addis Standard Op/Ed -
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#Ethiopia appoints new Ambassador to #Somalia after nearly a year of diplomatic rift
Ethiopia has appointed Suleiman Dedefo Woshe as its new ambassador to Somalia, nearly a year after a diplomatic fallout led to a freeze in ambassadorial-level ties. Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, received Ambassador Suleiman's credentials during a ceremony in Mogadishu, signaling a renewed diplomatic cooperation between the Horn of Africa neighboring countries.
The appointment follows a period of strained relations that began in October 2024, when Somalia expelled an Ethiopian diplomat for allegedly violating diplomatic norms and later ousted Ethiopia’s then-ambassador. The fallout was further exacerbated by Ethiopia’s MoU with Somaliland, which Somalia saw as a violation of its sovereignty.
Although Turkish-brokered talks to defuse the tensions produced the “Ankara Declaration” in December 2024, efforts to bring about concrete results have since faltered, with no progress reported since April 2025.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51669
Ethiopia has appointed Suleiman Dedefo Woshe as its new ambassador to Somalia, nearly a year after a diplomatic fallout led to a freeze in ambassadorial-level ties. Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, received Ambassador Suleiman's credentials during a ceremony in Mogadishu, signaling a renewed diplomatic cooperation between the Horn of Africa neighboring countries.
The appointment follows a period of strained relations that began in October 2024, when Somalia expelled an Ethiopian diplomat for allegedly violating diplomatic norms and later ousted Ethiopia’s then-ambassador. The fallout was further exacerbated by Ethiopia’s MoU with Somaliland, which Somalia saw as a violation of its sovereignty.
Although Turkish-brokered talks to defuse the tensions produced the “Ankara Declaration” in December 2024, efforts to bring about concrete results have since faltered, with no progress reported since April 2025.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51669
Addis Standard
Ethiopia appoints new Ambassador to Somalia after nearly a year of diplomatic rift - Addis Standard
Ethiopia appoints new Ambassador to Somalia after nearly a year of diplomatic rift Addis Standard News -
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#Ethiopian Airlines reports $7.6B revenue, confirms #frozen funds in #Eritrea remain inaccessible
Ethiopian Airlines transported more than 19 million domestic and international passengers and earned 7.6 billion USD in revenue during the 2024/2025 Ethiopian budget year, marking an 8 % increase from the previous year, CEO Mesfin Tasew announced today
The CEO admitted that multiple regional and global crises, including conflicts in the Middle East, Sudan, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as having significantly disrupted airline operations over the past year. He also cited U.S. government regulations as a growing challenge to air transport services.
“Despite these challenges, the global air transport industry managed to serve 5 billion customers,” he said, adding that Ethiopian Airlines delivered a comparatively strong performance.
Addressing the unresolved issue of Ethiopian Airlines’ frozen bank account in Eritrea, which led to the suspension of flights to Asmara in September last year, the CEO confirmed that the seized funds remain unrecovered.
“We pursued legal measures to recover the money through the courts, but the efforts were unsuccessful. Therefore, the issue is a political decision,” he said.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51672
Ethiopian Airlines transported more than 19 million domestic and international passengers and earned 7.6 billion USD in revenue during the 2024/2025 Ethiopian budget year, marking an 8 % increase from the previous year, CEO Mesfin Tasew announced today
The CEO admitted that multiple regional and global crises, including conflicts in the Middle East, Sudan, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as having significantly disrupted airline operations over the past year. He also cited U.S. government regulations as a growing challenge to air transport services.
“Despite these challenges, the global air transport industry managed to serve 5 billion customers,” he said, adding that Ethiopian Airlines delivered a comparatively strong performance.
Addressing the unresolved issue of Ethiopian Airlines’ frozen bank account in Eritrea, which led to the suspension of flights to Asmara in September last year, the CEO confirmed that the seized funds remain unrecovered.
“We pursued legal measures to recover the money through the courts, but the efforts were unsuccessful. Therefore, the issue is a political decision,” he said.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51672
Addis Standard
Ethiopian Airlines reports $7.6B revenue, confirms frozen funds in Eritrea remain inaccessible - Addis Standard
Ethiopian Airlines reports $7.6B revenue, confirms frozen funds in Eritrea remain inaccessible Addis Standard News -
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#Askari complete #technical due diligence at #Ethiopia project
Askari Metals has completed technical due diligence on the Nejo gold and copper project, in Ethiopia, a key condition precedent for settlement of the acquisition, subject to shareholder approval.
The company has finalised a regional exploration programme at the Guji-Gudeya and Guliso gold trends, including design of soil and rock sampling and geological mapping ahead of maiden drilling campaign.
“We are pleased that the technical due diligence has been successfully concluded at our Nejo project.
“Our on-site due diligence was focused on the drill-ready targets of Guji, Komto 1 and Komto 2 validating and verifying historical drilling and trenching along the highly prospective Guji-Gudeya gold trend,” executive director Gino D’Anna explains.
https://www.miningweekly.com/article/askari-complete-technical-due-diligence-at-ethiopia-project-2025-08-05
Askari Metals has completed technical due diligence on the Nejo gold and copper project, in Ethiopia, a key condition precedent for settlement of the acquisition, subject to shareholder approval.
The company has finalised a regional exploration programme at the Guji-Gudeya and Guliso gold trends, including design of soil and rock sampling and geological mapping ahead of maiden drilling campaign.
“We are pleased that the technical due diligence has been successfully concluded at our Nejo project.
“Our on-site due diligence was focused on the drill-ready targets of Guji, Komto 1 and Komto 2 validating and verifying historical drilling and trenching along the highly prospective Guji-Gudeya gold trend,” executive director Gino D’Anna explains.
https://www.miningweekly.com/article/askari-complete-technical-due-diligence-at-ethiopia-project-2025-08-05
#Egypt renews ‘water security’ fears in #Uganda as #Ethiopia readies to inaugurate Renaissance Dam
Egypt has renewed its diplomatic offensive over the Nile River by dispatching senior officials to Uganda, raising concerns over its “existential” water security ahead of Ethiopia’s planned inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD) in September.
Despite Ethiopia’s repeated assurances that the GERD supports regional development and poses no harm to downstream countries, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Minister of Water Hani Sewilam warned of “unilateral actions” and vowed to pursue “all measures” under international law to safeguard “Egypt’s water security.”
The Egyptian high-level delegation visit to Uganda comes less than a week after a series of another high-level lobby in Washington D.C. and amid Cairo’s continued refusal to join the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA), the only legally binding framework negotiated by Nile Basin states to govern equitable water use.
Ethiopia’s Water Minister Habtamu Itefa highlighted Egypt’s contradictory and obstructionist stance in February this year, revealing its attempts to block a ministerial visit to the GERD during a Nile Basin Initiative meeting in Addis Abeba. “This showed who stands for cooperation and who stands against progress,” Habtamu said.
In July Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that the GERD’s official inauguration would be held in September 2025 and extended formal invitations to Egypt, Sudan, and all Nile Basin countries.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51678
Egypt has renewed its diplomatic offensive over the Nile River by dispatching senior officials to Uganda, raising concerns over its “existential” water security ahead of Ethiopia’s planned inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (#GERD) in September.
Despite Ethiopia’s repeated assurances that the GERD supports regional development and poses no harm to downstream countries, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Minister of Water Hani Sewilam warned of “unilateral actions” and vowed to pursue “all measures” under international law to safeguard “Egypt’s water security.”
The Egyptian high-level delegation visit to Uganda comes less than a week after a series of another high-level lobby in Washington D.C. and amid Cairo’s continued refusal to join the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA), the only legally binding framework negotiated by Nile Basin states to govern equitable water use.
Ethiopia’s Water Minister Habtamu Itefa highlighted Egypt’s contradictory and obstructionist stance in February this year, revealing its attempts to block a ministerial visit to the GERD during a Nile Basin Initiative meeting in Addis Abeba. “This showed who stands for cooperation and who stands against progress,” Habtamu said.
In July Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced that the GERD’s official inauguration would be held in September 2025 and extended formal invitations to Egypt, Sudan, and all Nile Basin countries.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=51678