Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie Blames External Interference for Renewed Tigray Conflict
At the 2026 UN General Assembly, Ethiopia's president warned that foreign involvement is fueling the resurgence of violence in the Tigray region, underscoring ongoing instability in northern Ethiopia.
Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie addressed the United Nations General Assembly on September 24, 2026, expressing deep concern over the resurgence of armed conflict in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia. He attributed the renewed fighting to interference by "external actors," highlighting the fragile security situation and the risks posed by foreign involvement in the conflict.
The Tigray conflict, which initially erupted in late 2020, has seen intermittent ceasefires and flare-ups despite various peace efforts. The recent escalation has raised alarms about the potential for wider regional destabilization.
President Selassie did not specify which external parties were involved but emphasized that such interference undermines Ethiopia's sovereignty and hampers efforts toward lasting peace and reconciliation. His remarks come amid ongoing humanitarian concerns, including displacement and food insecurity affecting millions in the region.
Observers note that the renewed violence threatens to reverse progress made since the 2022 peace agreement between the Ethiopian federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). The international community has called for restraint and dialogue to prevent further deterioration.
While the Ethiopian government blames foreign interference, the TPLF and other regional actors have their own narratives about the causes of the conflict's resurgence, reflecting the complex and contested nature of the crisis.
What remains unclear is the identity and motives of the alleged external actors, as well as the extent of their influence on the ground. The Ethiopian government has pledged to protect its territorial integrity and pursue peace but has not detailed specific measures to counter foreign involvement.
Looking ahead, the international community and regional stakeholders will be watching closely for developments, including any renewed peace negotiations or escalations in violence. The humanitarian situation also demands urgent attention to prevent further suffering among civilians.
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