Addis Ababa: The United States has announced visa restrictions on individuals accused of undermining peace and stability in Ethiopia, expressing concern that rising tensions between the federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) could reignite conflict in the country’s north.
In a statement, the U.S. Department of State said the measures target individuals believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, efforts to obstruct a peaceful resolution to the crisis in the Tigray region. The restrictions are reported to focus on TPLF hardliners and their immediate family members.
“This visa restriction policy targets individuals who are responsible for, or complicit in, undermining resolution to the crisis in the Tigray region,” the State Department said.
The department also reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting the people of Ethiopia, including those living in the Tigray region.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns over security developments in northern Ethiopia. In recent weeks, reports of drone strikes in Tigray have emerged, while mediation efforts led by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo remain ongoing.
Federal government officials have also alleged that elements within the TPLF are working with neighboring Eritrea to destabilize Ethiopia. The TPLF has previously rejected similar accusations.
