Ethiopia imposes internet blackout as fighting resumes in Tigray

Internet services in Ethiopia's Tigray region have been severely curtailed following the resumption of fighting between regional and federal forces, according to reports from connectivity monitoring organizations. The blackout represents a significant disruption to communications in an area still recovering from years of conflict.

The restriction of digital connectivity mirrors tactics employed throughout Tigray's prolonged civil war, which lasted approximately two years and left the region isolated from the global communications network. During that period, the near-total communications blackout complicated humanitarian operations and limited the flow of information about conditions on the ground.

Internet disruptions in conflict zones are frequently used to restrict information flow and limit coordination among opposition groups. The move comes as fighting has escalated in recent days, raising concerns about civilian access to essential services and external communication.

The Ethiopian government has not issued official statements regarding the scope or duration of the internet restrictions. International organizations working in the region have expressed concern about the impact on humanitarian operations and the ability of aid workers to coordinate relief efforts in an already fragile situation.