Ethiopian opposition claims drone attacks in Addis Ababa after explosions
Key Points:
- Explosions were reported overnight in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital, with three diplomatic sources indicating possible drone strikes by an opposition alliance targeting the military headquarters.
- The opposition alliance, engaged in conflict with federal forces in northern Ethiopia since last week, claims responsibility for the drone attacks, which would be the first known strikes on the capital if confirmed.
- The Ethiopian national intelligence service has banned all drone flights over Addis Ababa indefinitely, citing security concerns amid escalating violence.
- This recent conflict marks the largest escalation since the 2020-2022 civil war, with evidence emerging that opposition forces may now possess drone capabilities.
- Pro-government militias in Tigray have reportedly captured drone components from forces linked to the Tigray People's Liberation Front, a key member of the opposition alliance.