Ethiopia declared a state of emergency as Tigrayan rebels advanced toward the capital, Addis Ababa, after capturing key towns. The government called on citizens to defend the city, and the U.S. threatened sanctions, revoking trade privileges due to human rights violations. The conflict has escalated since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's military campaign against the Tigray People's Liberation Front began a year ago. The war has raised international concern for its regional impact and humanitarian crisis, with millions in Tigray needing aid and accusations of atrocities on both sides.

The conflict between Ethiopian federal troops and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) continues, with the federal army taking control of Mekelle, the regional capital of Tigray. Despite claims of peace returning to the area, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael alleges that protests are occurring in Mekelle due to looting by Eritrean soldiers, an accusation denied by both Ethiopia and Eritrea. Communications are down, making verification difficult, but thousands are believed dead and over 45,000 have fled to Sudan. The UN and aid agencies are concerned about the humanitarian crisis, as Tigray was already dependent on food aid. Mulu Nega, appointed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to lead the Provisional Administration of Tigray, is focusing on restoring peace and stability. Abiy's actions against Tigray have raised international concern, with fears of a protracted civil war being discussed at a U.S. congressional hearing.

The article reports on the identification of coordinates for a drone massacre in Ethiopia's Amhara region, potentially paving the way for a war crimes investigation. The massacre, which occurred on February 19, resulted in the deaths of at least 30 civilians. The Ethiopian National Army and the Fano militia, former allies, are now in conflict, with the army accused of human rights abuses. Misganaw Belete, a human rights advocate, provided evidence that helped geolocate the massacre site. The Ethiopian government has announced a new offensive against the Fano militias, claiming peaceful resolutions have failed.