Ethiopian Forces Conduct Drone Strikes Near Woldia, Amhara Region Amid Fano Clashes

Drone Strikes Reported Near Woldia

The Ethiopian Defense Forces (EDF) conducted drone strikes in the Amhara region over the weekend, specifically targeting areas near Woldia city. Reports indicate that these strikes resulted in an unspecified number of civilian casualties and damage to property. The affected locations include Jarsa Ber, which reportedly experienced three rounds of drone attacks, and Sanka, situated approximately 10 kilometers west of Woldia.

Residents from Woldia described the attacks and the prevailing atmosphere as 'intimidating,' with continuous gunfire also reported in the vicinity. The Amhara Fano National Force (AFNF) stated that physicians were among the victims of a drone attack at a health center in Sanka. At least two civilians were confirmed dead, with many more wounded.

Context of Escalating Conflict

These drone operations followed significant engagements between federal forces and Fano rebel forces, where the EDF reportedly suffered losses. Fano forces had claimed recent victories in areas near Beklo Manekia and other adjacent locations, asserting that they had inflicted heavy casualties on the Ethiopian Defense Forces, including hundreds killed and captured.

The conflict in the Amhara region, which began in April 2023, stems from the Ethiopian government's efforts to centralize its security apparatus and integrate regional forces. This policy has led to widespread protests and armed resistance from local Fano militias. The Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) has increasingly relied on drone strikes as a tactic in its counter-insurgency campaign, particularly after experiencing setbacks in ground battles.

Civilian Impact and Broader Concerns

The use of drones in the Amhara conflict has raised significant concerns regarding civilian safety. Reports from various sources, including the Amhara Association of America (AAA), indicate a pattern of drone strikes causing civilian casualties across the region. Previous incidents have documented strikes on civilian targets such as schools, bus stops, and vehicles transporting ordinary citizens.

While the head of the Ethiopian army, Field Marshall Birhanu Jula, has previously denied intentionally targeting civilians, stating that drones aim for 'gatherings of extremist fighters' while exercising caution to avoid civilian harm, human rights organizations and local reports continue to highlight the devastating impact on non-combatants. The intensifying conflict in north and south Wollo areas of the Amhara region suggests a deepening humanitarian crisis.