**Internet Restricted After Fighting Breaks Out in Ethiopia's Tigray Region**
In a significant escalation of tensions in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, internet and telecommunications services have been disrupted following renewed clashes between regional forces and the national army. The fighting, which reignited this week, has raised concerns over the potential for a return to the conditions experienced during the two-year civil war that concluded in late 2022.
State-owned telecom operator Ethio Telecom has completely cut off services in the region, while the smaller private firm Safaricom has managed to maintain some operational capabilities. Internet monitoring organization NetBlocks reported a sub-national internet shutdown specifically affecting northern Tigray, indicating a targeted disruption of communication channels.
Duke Burbridge, an American humanitarian worker based in Tigray's capital, Mekelle, confirmed the telecommunications blackout, stating, "Last night telecommunications got knocked out." The disruption comes at a time when residents have already been grappling with a scarcity of cash, which has persisted for the past eight months. Many individuals in Tigray rely on banking and mobile money applications for their financial transactions, predominantly using the networks provided by Ethio Telecom and Safaricom.
Burbridge expressed concern over the implications of the internet shutdown, noting that the lack of access to online banking services would be "devastating for everybody." The ongoing conflict has exacerbated existing challenges, as the population has been struggling with limited access to cash, food, and essential medical supplies.
The recent outbreak of violence began on Wednesday, sparking fears among residents, which led to panic buying as people sought to stock up on necessities. The situation is reminiscent of the earlier civil war, during which Tigray was effectively isolated from the rest of the world, leading to dire humanitarian conditions. Reports from that period indicated that limited access to food and medical care pushed hundreds of thousands of people into famine-like situations.
As the situation continues to develop, the BBC has reached out to Ethiopian authorities for comments regarding the current telecommunications disruptions and the ongoing fighting. The international community remains watchful, as the potential for further escalation could have significant humanitarian implications for the region.
The Tigray conflict has deep historical roots, involving complex political dynamics between the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government. The civil war, which lasted from November 2020 until its official end in November 2022, resulted in widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis that affected millions.
As the region faces renewed violence, the need for effective communication and humanitarian support becomes increasingly critical. The situation in Tigray serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the ongoing challenges faced by those living in conflict-affected areas.
The international community, including various humanitarian organizations, is likely to respond to the developments in Tigray, emphasizing the importance of restoring communication services and providing aid to those in need. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the conflict and the well-being of the Tigrayan population.