The TPLF ordered Safaricom and state-owned Ethio telecom to cut connections to the networks, four sources including a diplomatic official told Reuters. This movement constitutes the most serious escalation of fighting between the government and Tigrayan forces since the regional war ended in 2022.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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Ethiopia Repels Tigrayan Rebels at Abela in Most Serious Escalation Since 2022
War25 days ago
Phone and internet services ceased across northern Ethiopia on Friday following an overnight attempt by insurgent forces to seize the city of Abela near the Afar border. Ethiopian army forces blocked the Tigrayan rebels from capturing the city, and the military reported that the rebel forces suffered losses during the operation. Netblocks monitored network disruptions throughout the region as access was severed.
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