Explosions rock Ethiopian capital after drone operations suspended

Residents of Ethiopia's capital reported hearing multiple explosions on Tuesday, shortly after aviation authorities announced a ban on drone flights over Addis Ababa. The nature and source of the blasts remained unclear, though the timing suggested a possible connection to heightened tensions in the region.

The aerial restrictions were implemented as fighting intensified in areas north of the capital, where Ethiopian federal forces have engaged with a newly formed alliance of armed opposition groups. The military confrontation represents an escalation in hostilities that first erupted approximately one week prior.

Access to the affected areas remained limited, hampering independent verification of events on the ground. The Ethiopian government has not yet issued an official statement detailing the circumstances surrounding either the explosions or the drone flight restrictions.

The latest developments underscores mounting security concerns in the Horn of Africa nation, where periodic outbreaks of violence have disrupted civilian life and raised international concerns about regional stability. Military officials have indicated ongoing operations to counter the armed groups involved in the clashes.