UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called on all parties to the conflict in northern Ethiopia to exercise maximum restraint, as fighting in and around Tigray intensifies and hostilities spread into neighbouring areas. His spokesman issued the statement amid what the Secretary-General described as a rapidly deteriorating situation.
Among the developments prompting the UN's intervention is the seizure and occupation of the airports of Mekelle, Axum, and Shire — three of the region's key air infrastructure points. The spread of hostilities beyond Tigray has added urgency to international concern over the trajectory of the conflict.
Guterres called specifically for the immediate de-escalation of tensions, the protection of civilians, and the guarantee of safe and unhindered access for humanitarian partners to reach those in need. He also warned against actions that could lead to a broader and more devastating conflict.
The Secretary-General reiterated his support for efforts by the African Union to reduce tensions and bring the parties back to the negotiating table. He cited in particular the engagement of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who has been involved in AU-led efforts to re-engage the parties in good faith under the framework of the Pretoria Agreement.
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